What Are the Causes of Bruising From Scratching Dry Skin?

Bruises result from broken blood vessels that leak near the skin's surface, and can appear as black, blue, purple, yellow or green areas on the skin. Fortunately, bruising as a result of scratching dry skin is preventable and treatable through lifestyle changes and self-care.

Types

Bruises related to scratching might result from a medical condition, such as eczema, that caused the dry skin, or from personal behaviors, such as scratching too hard or frequently.

Features

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Bruises from scratching dry skin might appear swollen, feel tender to the touch, appear as lines across the skin and occur all over the body.

Identification

Primary care physicians and dermatologists identify and diagnose the causes of bruising and dry skin. Patients might receive a physical exam and undergo blood tests for diagnosis of medical conditions that cause bruising and itching.

Considerations

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Women, people who are elderly and those who take blood thinners such as aspirin are more likely to easily bruise after scratching dry skin.

Treatments

According to the Mayo Clinic, recommendations for treating bruises include elevating the affected area, applying cold packs several times daily and using a pain reliever such as acetaminophen 2.

Prevention/Solution

Using a daily moisturizer, avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight and hot showers or baths, and wearing long sleeves and pants can protect the skin from bruises and reduce the urge to scratch.