Injections are not only administered to sick individuals. However, whether you are donating blood or undergoing a blood test, you will likely encounter a needle. Often, taking blood can cause bruising at the injection site.

In some cases, you may wonder if a bruise is normal or a sign of a health problem that’s risky. There is no need to worry; you can learn more about it below.

Causes of Blue Bruising or Bruising After Blood Draw

Essentially, the appearance of swollen and bluish bruising at the injection site is normal and expected. There is nothing to worry about as it commonly occurs among many people. Usually, this happens due to damage to the blood vessels that may occur during the blood draw procedure.

Did you know that there is damage to the tissues under the skin during the blood draw process? This occurs because the sharp needle pierces the skin to reach the vein, small blood vessels, and tissues that may rupture.

As a result, tears occur around the blood vessels, causing the thick fluid to potentially leak out and accumulate on one side. Consequently, a bluish color will appear, and damage to the skin tissue will cause swelling.

Therefore, if you experience this when drawing blood, there is no need to worry because the bruise can disappear on its own, although it may take some time. It might take about 1-2 weeks, so you need to be patient. The darker the bruise’s color, the longer the healing process will take.

How to Treat Bruising from Post-Blood Draw Injections

Here are a few ways to treat bruising from injections that you can try:

1. Ice Pack Compress

You are probably already familiar with this first method. Not only can bruises from injections heal with ice, but other types of bruises as well. To help the bruise disappear more quickly, you can compress it using an ice pack.

    However, do not apply the ice directly. Wrap it in a cloth or towel to mitigate the chilly sensation. Do this 3 to 4 times a day for about 15 minutes each.

    2. Warm Water Compress

    The second way to eliminate injection marks from blood draws is by using a warm water compress. The aim is to reduce the pain from the injection site on your skin. Typically, pain will appear after 48 hours since the bruise formed.

      To avoid severe pain and disruption to your activities, you can also take pain relievers, such as paracetamol or other products. At least, this medicine can help reduce the pain caused by the bruising.

      3. Consult a Doctor

      If the two methods above do not reduce the bruising and pain, the last step you can try is to consult a doctor. Usually, the bruise will disappear after 2 weeks with a maximum healing time of 3 weeks.

        However, if the bruise does not disappear within that period, or if the pain worsens and other symptoms such as swelling, numbness, or tingling occur, then you should consult a doctor. There could be other issues that require further treatment.

        Post-Blood Draw Side Effects

        In some cases, blood draws can cause various side effects such as:

        • Swelling at the injection site.
        • Bruising appears blue to black due to broken blood vessels.
        • Cold sweats, dizziness to fainting if the person is overly panicked and scared about the blood draw.

        Do You Know How to Treat Bruising After a Blood Draw?

        Here is some important information regarding bruising after blood draws. From now on, if you experience this condition, there’s no need to worry. If you need a consultation, you can have an Online Doctor Consultation provided by Tirta Medical Centre. You can discuss privately with a doctor without having to meet face to face.

        Supported by professional and competent medical personnel, easy and fast access, and already certified. What are you waiting for? Contact Tirta Medical Centre now to get more information!

        FAQ About Bruising After Blood Draws

        1. Does drawing blood hurt?

        Drawing blood from the body only requires 5 cc out of the 5,000 cc total amount in the human body. So generally, the side effect will only cause pain. You will not feel excessive pain.

        2. What are the purposes of drawing blood?

        There are many purposes for this activity. Broadly speaking, the purpose of drawing this fluid is for donations and disease detection.

        3. What diseases can be detected through blood tests?

        There are many diseases that require this fluid sample as a detection tool. Examples include diabetes, lung diseases, blood clots, body inflammations, autoimmune diseases, electrolyte disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.

        4. What is done after a blood test is completed?

        After the test and fluid collection are completed, you are highly advised to get sufficient rest. Ask doctors and lab technicians for help during treatment and get ready for further examinations as best as you can.

        5. How long does it take to get the results of a blood test?

        Not too long. You can typically get the results in about 30-60 minutes.

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