Bruising

A bruise occurs when small blood vessels (capillaries) under the surface of the skin are damaged and blood seeps into the surrounding areas. It is normal to have a bruise if you knock against a hard surface. People can be more prone to bruising if they have nutritional deficiencies, blood clotting disorders, anaemia, haemophilia, cancer, abnormal platelet function, kidney or liver dysfunction.

Symptoms: pain, swelling and blue and black marks.

Who to consult: Dietician, GP, haematologist, herbalist, homoeopath, naturopath.