Bruising After a Blood Draw: Here's What to Know
It's fairly common to see a small bruise on your arm after having your blood drawn. Bruising occurs because of small blood vessels getting damaged or punctured as your healthcare provider inserts the needle. However, bruising after a blood draw isn't a cause for concern. Here's why it occurs. Common Causes of Bruises After a Blood Draw Bruising normally occurs when the blood vessels under your skin are damaged. Here are some common causes of bruises after a blood test: Damaged Blood Vessels Your phlebotomist inserts a needle into a vein inside your wrist or elbow during a blood draw procedure. Sometimes, this needle damages a few capillaries along the way, leading to bruises. Hard-to-Find Veins Sometimes it's difficult to find a vein due to various reasons. The person drawing your blood will try to locate the vein, but if your veins are less visible or your arm is swollen, it makes the process difficult, leading to a bruise. Not Applying Enough Press