OpenHealth Q&A

It's concerning that a bruise is worsening and accompanied by swelling and numbness. This could indicate deeper tissue injury or another underlying issue. Monitoring your symptoms is important, especially with the numb area suggesting possible nerve involvement.

Explanation

A bruise that expands and becomes increasingly swollen like yours can indicate bleeding under the skin and may require attention, especially if it's coupled with symptoms like numbness. The numbness could suggest that there’s pressure on nearby nerves, which can happen with larger hematomas (a collection of blood outside of blood vessels) that form beneath the skin. It’s important to address these symptoms promptly to prevent further complications.

Next Steps

1. Rest and Elevation: Minimize movement of your leg and elevate it when possible to reduce swelling.
2. Cold Compress: Apply a cold pack to the bruise for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed. This can help reduce swelling and numbness.
3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes, especially if the numbness spreads, if you experience increased pain, or if the swelling worsens.
4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation, if you’re not allergic and have no contraindications.
5. Consider Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If the swelling does not improve in a few days, if you notice worsening numbness, or if new symptoms arise, seeking medical advice is strongly recommended.

Taking these steps should help manage your current symptoms while ensuring that any necessary medical evaluation can occur if the situation warrants it. Always trust your instinct; if something doesn't feel right, it's okay to seek medical guidance.