Question:
17 months PO and bruising easily and they stay for along time, What is the matter ?

   — Janet S. (posted on September 4, 2003)

September 4, 2003
I'm 4 months Post Op and I asked my PA the same question. I've also done some research online. The answer I got was we are losing fat and that fat is what kept our skin from bruising. Unless there is an underlining medical problem, shouldn't worry about it. I'm not and I continue to find bruises in odd places. Sometimes I remember hitting myself or bumping into somethings. Most times not. Age and loss of fat are the culprits.
   — suzcar51

September 4, 2003
I had a ton of bruising starting about a year out, and my doc tested my thiamine levels and they were low (B1)...I'm now on daily B1 supplements and things have gotten much better, although I still tend to bruise rather easily. I just don't have as many all at the same time. Hugs, Joy
   — [Deactivated Member]

September 4, 2003
Vitamin C deficiency can also be the culprit. My bruisinf stopped once I added more Vit C to my diet.
   — M B.

September 4, 2003
If you were closer to your surgery date, I'd say loss of fat, but considering how far out you are, get your thyamine and vitamin c levels checked... and other vitie levels. I was the same way early out, and it was just losing fat... at 18 months I was bruising again, and it was vitamin deficiency... get your vities checked!!!
   — Sharon m. B.

September 4, 2003
I'm not an expert. I haven't even had surgery yet. I saw the posts about vitamins and they seem to know about it. But I was having trouble with bruising a few years ago and they found out I was anemic. I don't know what type of vitamins you are on, or how much iron is in the diet since I haven't had my surgery yet, but could be low iron. Simple test to check it, just a finger prick, and then they can draw blood to find out how low. But DON't go out and buy iron supps and just take them. High doses of iron cause constipation :)
   — KimmieMitchell33

September 4, 2003
A vitamin K deficiency can also cause bruising. Lots of possibilities here!
   — Chris T.

September 5, 2003
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies govern bruising, makes no difference how fat or thin you are. Definitely get back to your PCP and talk about vegetable and fruit intake, go over your vitamins list, etc. Good luck!
   — Deborah M.