Answer

Hello again,

 

Since I haven't heard from you yet, I'll discuss other reasons for bruising.

Causes can include lack of vitamin K in the diet. This can occur from insufficient intake of foods such as fresh dark green vegetables. See this list for a complete look at foods that include vitamin K: http://www.vaughns-1-pagers.com/food/vitamin-k-foods.htm

That list does not include berries, which are the only fruit besides Kiwi that contain vitamin K.

 

Of course, if she is taking coumadin, she should not try to increase her vitamin K intake, rather be careful of excess pressure to skin which can result in bruising, also it is important that she have a coumadin level.

 

If not on coumadin, it will be important for her to have lab work to see if there is any problem with her natural clotting process. This would include a coagulation profile and platelet count (included in a CBC). This is especially important if you see a continuation of this problem. In rare cases inadequate clotting could be one sign of a bone marrow failure.

 

For her skin, it would be a good idea to consider if her hydration or fluid intake is adequate. She should consider taking a fish oil, flax seed oil, or other omega 3 or 6 fatty acid supplement if she is not getting much of this "good fat" in her diet.

 

Soaking in a bath with colloidial oatmeal is helpful in hydrating the skin and stopping itching.

 

If she is using a lotion product and it is not working, she may want to consider getting one that is "allergen free" such as the brand Cetaphil.

 

If you have questions, please reply so that either I or another health care expert can address them.

 

EDIT your reply came through. The above holds through, due to the bruising which is an abnormal response.

Edited by Susan Ivy on 12/14/2008 at 5:40 PM

Expert:	Susan Ivy
Pos. Feedback:	99.2 %
Accepts:
Answered:	12/14/2008

Nurse (RN)

BSN, MSN, CNS