Bruises and Pain: When to See a Doctor

Please ask your question, doctor?

Hello doctor, after taking a shower and drying off, I noticed some pain in my lower back.
Upon inspection, I found some yellow-green discoloration that was a bit painful to touch, and there were also some purple spots that looked like small dots.
I would like to ask if this could be a sign of a broken blood vessel.
I don't recall any specific falls, but I did bump into something a few days ago while cleaning the house for my mom after school.
During my research, I came across many possibilities and became worried that it could be some kind of autoimmune disease, as I read about conditions like purpura.
However, during last year's school health check, they only mentioned that I had slight myopia and suggested I might need glasses.
My mom isn't home yet, and I don't know who else to ask.
I'm in the second year of junior high, so if possible, could you please explain this to me in simpler terms? In elementary school, I had a fall that caused a bruise on my knee, but it looked much larger than these small dots.
I also noticed that the area is painful to press on.
Since it hurts, can I use the pain relief ointment my mom has, called Teiria Gel? I took two pictures and hope you can take a look.
Should I tell my mom that I want to see a doctor before class tomorrow? Thank you.

Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/31

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Based on your description and the photos, it is most likely a simple bruise, which may have occurred due to an accidental bump or strain.
Typically, the body will heal itself over time, so there is no need for concern.
As for the purpura you mentioned, it is a type of autoimmune disease that usually presents with widespread bruising, and previous blood tests may have shown abnormalities in platelet count or coagulation function, so you are likely not suffering from this condition.
Regarding the ointment you mentioned, it is an anti-inflammatory cream.
If the bruised area is very painful, you can apply this ointment; if it is not very painful, there is no need to use any ointment and you can let it heal on its own.
Currently, it seems that there is no need for you to see a doctor unless you start to notice an increasing number of unexplained bruises, in which case you should consult a hematologist or a family medicine physician.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2020/05/31

More Info

When it comes to understanding bruises and pain, especially in the context of a young individual like yourself, it’s important to approach the situation with both caution and clarity. From your description, it sounds like you may have sustained a bruise, which is typically caused by trauma to the skin that results in bleeding under the skin. This can happen even if you don’t remember a specific incident, as minor bumps can sometimes go unnoticed.

Bruises often appear as a result of small blood vessels breaking, which can lead to the discoloration you’re seeing—often starting as red or purple and then changing to yellow or green as it heals. The pain you’re experiencing when you touch the area is also common, as bruised tissue can be sensitive.

Given your age and the fact that you’re concerned about the possibility of an underlying condition, it’s understandable to feel anxious. However, it’s essential to remember that not all bruises indicate a serious health issue. The fact that you mentioned hitting something while cleaning could very well explain the bruise. It’s also worth noting that some people bruise more easily than others, which can be due to various factors, including genetics, certain medications, or even nutritional deficiencies.

Regarding your concerns about potential immune diseases or conditions like purpura (which is characterized by purple spots on the skin), it’s important to consider the context. If you were experiencing other symptoms, such as frequent bruising without clear causes, excessive bleeding, or other unusual symptoms, it would be more pressing to seek medical advice. However, based on your description, it seems like a typical bruise from a minor injury.

As for the topical medication you mentioned, Teiria Gel, it’s generally advisable to use topical treatments for bruises to help alleviate pain and discomfort. However, you should always check with a parent or guardian before applying any medication, especially if you’re unsure about its use.

In terms of whether you should see a doctor, here are some guidelines to help you decide:
1. Persistent Pain: If the pain does not improve or worsens over the next few days, it would be wise to consult a doctor.

2. Increased Bruising: If you notice more bruises appearing without any clear cause, it’s a good idea to seek medical advice.

3. Other Symptoms: If you experience symptoms like swelling, fever, or any signs of infection (such as redness or warmth around the bruise), you should see a doctor.

4. Emotional Well-being: If the anxiety about your health is affecting your daily life or school performance, talking to a trusted adult or a healthcare professional can be beneficial.

In conclusion, while it’s normal to feel concerned about changes in your body, especially at your age, most bruises are benign and heal on their own. However, keeping an open line of communication with your parents about your health and any concerns you have is crucial. If you feel that seeing a doctor would provide you with peace of mind, don’t hesitate to discuss it with your mother. It’s always better to be safe and informed about your health.

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