The variation of the colours of bruises is owing to changes going on in the blood which has been effused under the skin by violence. A bruise generally goes through all the various tints from black to green and yellowish-green. Bruises sometimes, from the large quantity of blood effused, become inflamed and form abscesses.

Treatment

To prevent or diminish discoloration from bruises, it is as well to apply cold or warm water as soon after the violence has been done as possible. To allay the swelling or inflamation which may follow, cooling lotions should be used. A mixture of tincture of arnica and water has been strongly recommended, but a mixture of spirit and water, or spirit, vinegar, and water, will be found quite as efficacious. Spirits of wine, I oz. Vinegar, I oz. Water, to 4 oz.