Why do bruises not disappear?

Bruises typically do disappear over time, gradually fading until they are no longer visible. The healing process of a bruise involves several stages:

1. Immediately After the Injury: When blood vessels are damaged due to an injury, blood leaks into the surrounding tissues, causing a reddish or purplish discoloration. This is the initial stage of a bruise.

2. Inflammation: The body initiates an inflammatory response to begin healing the damaged tissue. This causes an increase in blood flow to the area, leading to swelling, pain, and further darkening of the bruise.

3. Hemoglobin Breakdown: Over time, hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, breaks down into other pigments. This results in a change in the color of the bruise, progressing from red to blue, green, yellow, and finally back to normal skin color.

4. Re-absorption: The body's immune system gradually reabsorbs the broken down hemoglobin and other debris from the bruised area. This process continues until the bruise completely disappears.

The rate at which a bruise fades can vary depending on several factors, including the individual's overall health, the severity of the injury, and the location of the bruise. In most cases, bruises disappear within a few weeks. However, in some instances, especially if the injury is severe or affects larger blood vessels, the healing process may take longer, and the bruise may persist for several months.