[65F] Experiencing spontaneous bruising on hands and arms

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

• Senile purpura: This is a common condition in older adults characterized by the development of dark purple bruises, particularly on the arms and hands. These bruises occur due to the thinning of the skin and blood vessels as a part of the natural aging process.

  • There is no specific treatment for senile purpura, but protecting your skin from minor injuries can help prevent bruises.

• Blood clotting disorders: These are conditions that affect the blood's ability to clot, leading to easy bruising. However, these are usually accompanied by other symptoms such as prolonged bleeding from cuts, frequent nosebleeds, or blood in urine or stool, which you have not reported.

  • Treatment for blood clotting disorders depends on the specific condition and may involve medication to help the blood clot more effectively.

• Medication side effects: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can cause easy bruising. However, you have reported that you are not currently taking any medications.

Please note that this is not a comprehensive list and other conditions could also be responsible for your symptoms.

What you can do

Given the duration and persistence of your symptoms, it would be a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough examination and may order tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) or coagulation tests to help determine the cause of your bruising.

In the meantime, try to avoid activities that could lead to bruising. Use caution when moving around to avoid bumps and scrapes. Keeping your skin moisturized can also help keep it healthy and may reduce bruising.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you notice:

• Large or painful bruises
• Bruising that occurs along with a suspected broken bone
• Bruising that occurs along with swelling or tightness
• Bruising for no known reason
• Bruising that doesn't improve within two weeks
• Unexplained bleeding from the nose, gums, or any other part of your body

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, I am an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.