BLOOD clots can be “very serious” and have devastating consequences if not treated quickly. They sometimes cause “discolouration” to the skin; but how can you tell the difference between bruises and blood clots?
Blood clots can be “life-threatening if not treated quickly”, according to the NHS. Despite this, blood clots don’t always have immediate, visible symptoms. One symptom that sometimes shows itself is “discolouration” of the skin, according to Medical News Today, but this should not be confused with bruising.
Medical News Today states: “Symptoms of a blood clot may become visible or palpable, especially if the blood clots develop near the surface of the skin or if they disrupt blood flow deep in an extremity.”
Blood clots can show visible symptoms, most often if they form in the leg, though this can also occur in the arms or even the belly.
In the leg, the NHS describes blood clot symptoms of “swelling and redness”.
How to tell the difference between bruises and blood clot symptoms
Though bruises also cause some changes to the colour of the skin and even sometimes result in swelling, the causes and wider symptoms of a blood clot are very different.
Bruises tend to cause skin discolouration that changes over time.
They can also be sore or painful to the touch as they heal.
As the marks of the bruise fade, the pain tends to lessen as well.
Bruises typically develop after an injury.
