Alternative NamesContusion; HematomaDefinitionA bruise is an area of skin discoloration. A bruise occurs when small blood vessels break and leak their contents into the soft tissue beneath the skin.ConsiderationsThere are three types of bruises:Subcutaneous -- beneath the skinIntramuscular -- within the belly of the underlying musclePeriosteal -- bone bruiseBruises can last from days to months, with the bone bruise being the most severe and painful.CausesBruises are often caused by falls, sports injuries, car accidents, or blows received by other people or objects.If you take a blood thinner, like aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin), you are likely to bruise more easily.SymptomsThe main symptoms are pain, swelling, and skin discoloration. The bruise begins as a pinkish red color that can be ver