Broken blood vessels, more commonly referred to as bruises, frequently result from bumps and falls that take place during exercise. Most broken blood vessels are not a cause for medical concern and heal within two weeks, although some may take months to fully heal. Fortunately, most cases of bruising are preventable with lifestyle changes and are treatable at home with rest and pain relievers as recommended by a doctor.
Types
Three types of bruises can occur during exercise or physical activity. A subcutaneous bruise results when a blood vessel close to the skin's surface ruptures and leaks blood underneath the skin. An intramuscular bruise occurs when a blood vessel within a muscle ruptures. A periosteal bruise affects a blood vessel within a bone and is the most severe form of blood vessel breakage.
Features
Subcutaneous bruises that occur during exercise often change color over the course of the healing process. At first the bruise appears red, then one or two days later it becomes purple, and after five to ten days it's greenish; finally, after two weeks, the bruise looks yellow or brown. Broken blood vessels that occur in the muscles or bones during exercise can take months to heal. The affected area might swell, feel tender to the touch and cause difficulty with weight-bearing exercise.
Causes
According to the MedlinePlus website, falls and sports injuries are the most common causes of broken blood vessels. Getting hit with an object such as a ball or a piece of exercise equipment could also cause a blood vessel to break during exercise. Blood vessels break more easily with age, as their structure weakens and the skin becomes thinner, explains MayoClinic.com. In addition, medications and dietary supplements including Coumadin, Plavix, corticosteroids, fish oil and ginkgo can contribute to broken blood vessels and easy bruising.
Treatments
Most subcutaneous broken blood vessels are easily treated at home by elevating the affected area, placing an ice pack over the area to reduce swelling and resting the affected part of the body. Increased pain that occurs from intramuscular or periosteal bruising might require taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen to reduce symptoms, explains MayoClinic.com. If the bruise becomes large or is accompanied by feelings of extreme pressure; if bleeding develops in the eyes, mouth, urine or stool; or if signs of infection such as fever, pus or red streaks on the skin near the bruise develop, these symptoms could indicate a serious health condition and require emergency care.
Prevention
When exercising or playing sports that involve the potential for impacts or falls, wear protective gear such as knee pads or shin guards. Remove tripping hazards from around the home and gym, especially on and near stairs, to reduce the potential for falls. Supervise children during exercise or sports to help reduce the potential for injuries.
