Waking up with bruises on your arms and no memory of any injuries can be disconcerting. Although in most cases the cause is minor, there are situations where these bruises could reflect a medical condition that requires attention. Knowing their origins helps determine when it’s necessary to see a doctor.
What causes bruises for no clear reason?
Bruises occur when small blood vessels under the skin rupture, causing blood to leak into nearby tissues. This can occur due to minor trauma, although in some people, they develop without any obvious cause, especially while sleeping.
Common causes of nighttime bruising
1. Sudden movements during sleep
During the night, you may unconsciously bump into the headboard, the edge of the bed, or other surfaces. These impacts aren’t remembered, but they can leave visible marks the next day.
2. Fragile blood vessels
In some people, especially older adults or those with a genetic predisposition, capillaries can break easily, causing bruising with even slight contact.
3. Effect of medications
Drugs that affect clotting, such as anticoagulants or anti-inflammatories, increase the chance of bruising, even without visible injuries.
4. Deficiency of essential vitamins
A deficiency in vitamins such as C, K, or B12 can affect vascular strength and blood clotting, making bruising more likely.
5. Underlying medical problems
Some disorders such as liver disease, blood disorders, or platelet problems can cause spontaneous bruising and require medical diagnosis.
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