Unexpected Bruising with Normal Blood Results
Hello, Reddit! I’m a newcomer here, so I appreciate your patience with me. Recently, I (21, female) had some blood tests in July unrelated to my current concerns, and the results were generally normal. However, my white blood cell count was slightly elevated at 13, where the typical range would be under 10. The doctors mentioned that this could result from a variety of factors, including excessive vomiting, which I experienced quite a bit that day. Lately, I’ve been feeling anxious due to some unsettling information I’ve encountered online, particularly from TikTok doctors. This morning, I noticed a significant bruise on my left thigh, accompanied by a few smaller ones a little way off from each other, which formed a minor line. I have no recollection of any injury that could explain this, and it’s particularly odd since I haven’t had such bruises in quite a while. Additionally, I suspect that I have cherry angiomas; I’ve had some for several years, and I’ve noticed a few new ones appearing recently. Over the past few days, I’ve felt somewhat unwell but nothing that feels particularly out of the norm for me, and I haven't been vomiting or experiencing any severe symptoms. Given that my blood tests were conducted less than two months ago, I would think that if there were a significant underlying issue, it would likely have been detected then. Does anyone have insights into what could be causing these bruises? Could they potentially be related to any of my previous health concerns? It’s worth mentioning that I was diagnosed with an iron deficiency in high school, and I do have some vitamin deficiencies as well. Could this be a factor?
Answers (1)
9/12/2025, 2:01:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about unexpected bruising, especially when it's accompanied by anxiety and uncertainty. Noticing bruises without a clear cause can be unsettling, but there are several possible explanations. Here’s a structured response to your situation:
Summary of Main Points:
- Unexplained bruising can arise from various factors, including minor injuries, medications, or blood disorders.
- Your history of iron deficiency and vitamin deficiencies may contribute.
- Maintaining awareness of your symptoms and taking some simple actions can help.
Explanation:
Bruising occurs when blood vessels break under the skin, leading to discoloration. While minor injuries are the most common cause, other factors can contribute:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A history of iron deficiency or other vitamin deficiencies (like Vitamin C or K) can impact the body’s ability to clot blood effectively.
- Medications: Some medications, especially blood thinners or even some supplements, can increase bruising.
- Increased Physical Activity: Sometimes, increased activity that you may not consciously acknowledge can lead to bruising.
- Health Conditions: Conditions affecting platelets or blood vessels may lead to unexplained bruising, but consider your recent normal blood tests as reassurance against significant concerns.
Next Steps:
- Keep a Bruise Journal: Track the appearance and size of your bruises, noting any new ones and possible activities that might have led to them. This pattern will help identify if there's a connection.
- Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any other symptoms such as increased bleeding from small cuts, fatigue, or if you start experiencing new symptoms like frequent illnesses.
- Focus on Nutrition: Ensure you're getting adequate iron and vitamins. Consider foods rich in Vitamin C (like citrus fruits) and K (like leafy greens) as they support blood health.
- Stay Informed but Critical: Avoid relying solely on online sources for medical advice. When concerned, focus on credible health resources and consult with a healthcare provider if needed.
- Consider a Follow-Up: If the bruising continues without explanation, or if it starts affecting your quality of life, consider discussing it with your doctor. They may suggest further tests to rule out any underlying conditions.
Remember, anxiety about health issues is common, especially with the wealth of information available online. Taking proactive steps, as mentioned, can help empower you to manage your health effectively. If needed, reach out for support from a trusted friend or family member to help tackle any emotional distress stemming from your concerns.
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