As your child becomes more mobile, bruising can occur and be startling, especially in those with bleeding disorders. The development of bruises in children with hemophilia or Von Willebrand disease can sometimes be categorized as "easy bruising." Bruises occur when an injury causes blood vessels under the skin to bleed, which may be prolonged with a bleeding disorder, so smaller bumps and bruises can grow.
Also Read - What Are Bleeds and How Do You Treat Them?
The two types of bruises:
Superficial Bruises, those which are close to the surface and don’t need any medical treatment.
Hematomas, those which are deeper bruises and can form lumps. Hematomas may need to be treated and may cause discomfort to your child.
How do I limit the duration and the severity of a bruise at home?
Use the R.I.C.E. Method
R.I.C.E. Stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. The R.I.C.E. method is often used to treat strains, sprains, and bruises by slowing the bleeding and reducing the pain.
Rest Phase: The targeted area should be rested which means to be restrained from intense movement and activity.
Ice Phase: The application of ice has been proven to slow blood flow in the targeted area and to reduce the amount of blood leaking out of the blood vessels. If your child can tolerate it, apply ice to the targeted area for 15-20 minutes.
Compression Phase: Pressure, pressure pressure. Applying pressure to the targeted area enough to help with the healing process is a good step of the R.I.C.E. method. Applying too much pressure can be seen when the targeted area changes color and becomes cool or numb.
Elevation Phase: If possible, raise the targeted area so that it is at an elevation that is higher than the heart.
Many bruises for those who suffer from a bleeding disorder may not be threatening. All bruises may develop signs of a bleed occurring. Know the signs: - How do you know when a bleed is occurring?
Life threatening bruises occur in life threatening areas like the Central Nervous System (CNS), the airway, and Gastrointestinal system, and the head. Although, all bleeding can be threatening. If you are unsure or have questions about bruises or bleeds, contact your hematologist, specialist, or treatment center.
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