What causes bruising on the back of an elderly person's hand, and what should be done about it?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, bruising on the back of an elderly person's hand may be caused by trauma from bumping, blood vessel aging, thrombocytopenia, allergic purpura, or vitamin C deficiency. Appropriate management methods such as general supportive care or medication can be selected based on the specific situation. Daily monitoring of the elderly person's hand condition is important; provide them with anti-slip tools and regularly check their coagulation function and related indicators.
Generally, the appearance of bruising on the back of an elderly person's hand may be caused by factors such as trauma from collision, vascular aging, thrombocytopenia, allergic purpura, or vitamin C deficiency. Depending on the specific situation, general management or medication can be used to improve the condition. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Trauma from collision: Elderly individuals have fragile skin, and minor impacts to the back of the hand against hard objects can cause subcutaneous blood vessels to rupture and form bruises. Apply cold compresses within the first 48 hours after injury to control bleeding, then switch to warm compresses after 48 hours to promote absorption of the bruise. Take care to protect the hands during daily activities.
2. Vascular aging: With age, blood vessels lose elasticity and their walls become thinner, making them more prone to rupture and bruising. Avoid excessive hand strain and contact with sharp objects. Increase intake of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins in the diet.
3. Thrombocytopenia: Reduced platelet count leads to impaired blood clotting, increasing the risk of spontaneous bruising. Under medical guidance, medications such as aminopeptide tablets, Shengxue Xiaoban capsules, or leucogen tablets may be taken. Regular blood tests should be performed to monitor platelet levels.
4. Allergic purpura: The body's reaction to allergens increases capillary fragility, leading to bleeding. Follow doctor’s instructions to take loratadine tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or vitamin C supplements, and avoid known allergens.
5. Vitamin C deficiency: Lack of vitamin C impairs collagen synthesis, compromising blood vessel wall integrity and increasing bleeding tendency. Take oral vitamin C effervescent tablets, compound vitamin B tablets, and zinc gluconate oral solution. Eat more foods such as oranges and kiwifruits.
Monitor the elderly person's hand health regularly; provide non-slip tools for daily use; periodically check coagulation function and related health indicators. If bruises appear frequently or are accompanied by symptoms such as gum bleeding, seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause.
