Hickey Vs Bruise: What’s the difference and how to identify them?
Hickey and a bruise are two common types of skin injuries that occur due to different reasons. They might seem similar to the naked eye, but their causes and symptoms differ from each other. Hickeys usually occur as a result of physical contact during intimate activities, whereas bruises can happen due to various reasons such as sports injuries, accidents, or medical conditions.
This article aims to explain the differences between hickey and a bruise, how to identify them, and the FAQs related to these two types of injuries.
Hickey:
A Hickey is also referred to as a love bite, kiss mark, or a passion mark. It usually occurs when one person sucks or bites the skin of another person, resulting in discoloration and swelling on the affected area. Hickeys are commonly seen on the neck, but they can also appear on breasts, arms, or thighs.
Hickeys are not a serious medical condition, but they can be embarrassing and painful. It is important to note that hickeys are usually self-inflicted or consensual, and should not be confused with domestic violence or sexual assault.
Symptoms of Hickey:
The main symptoms of a hickey are discoloration and swelling on the affected area. The color of the hickey can vary from pink, red, or purple to brown, depending on the intensity of the sucking or biting pressure. The affected area might also feel tender or painful on touch.
Treatment of Hickey:
Hickeys usually go away on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. However, if the hickey is causing discomfort or embarrassment, some home remedies can help to speed up the healing process. Applying a cold compress, rubbing alcohol, toothpaste, or aloe vera gel on the affected area can help to reduce swelling and promote blood circulation. Massaging the hickey can also help to break up the blood clots and reduce the appearance of the injury.
Bruise:
A bruise, also known as a contusion, is a type of skin injury that occurs due to trauma or impact on the skin surface. Bruises can happen due to various reasons such as sports injuries, accidents, or medical conditions. Bruises occur when the blood vessels under the skin get damaged or broken, resulting in bleeding and accumulation of blood under the skin.
Symptoms of Bruise:
The main symptoms of a bruise are discoloration, swelling, and pain on the affected area. The color of the bruise can vary from red, purple, or blue to green or yellow, depending on the stage of the healing process. The affected area might also feel tender or painful on touch.
Treatment of Bruise:
Bruises usually heal on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. However, some home remedies can help to speed up the healing process and reduce discomfort. Applying a cold compress, an arnica gel, or a chamomile tea bag on the affected area can help to reduce swelling and inflammation. Elevating the affected area can also help to reduce blood flow and promote healing.
Difference between Hickey and Bruise:
The main difference between a hickey and a bruise is their cause and location. Hickeys usually occur due to suction or biting on the skin surface during intimate activities, whereas bruises can happen due to trauma or impact on the skin surface from sports injuries, accidents, or medical conditions. Hickeys are usually seen on the neck, breasts, arms, or thighs, whereas bruises can appear on any part of the body.
Another difference is the intensity of the injury. Hickeys usually occur as a result of mild to moderate pressure on the skin surface, whereas bruises can be severe and even cause underlying bone fractures or muscle tears.
Moreover, the social implications of hickey and a bruise differ from each other. Hickeys are usually considered as a sign of love or affection between partners, whereas bruises can raise concerns of domestic violence or sexual assault, especially in cases where the victim is unable to explain the cause of the injury.
FAQs:
1. Can hickeys be dangerous?
Hickeys are usually harmless and do not pose any serious health risks. However, if the hickey is on the neck, it can cause blood clots in the arteries or veins, which can be dangerous if left untreated.
2. Can bruises cause cancer?
No, bruises do not cause cancer. However, if the bruise is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or weight loss, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition such as leukemia, hemophilia, or anemia.
3. Can you get a bruise without being hit?
Yes, bruising can occur even without being hit. Some medical conditions such as thrombocytopenia, von Willebrand disease, and liver disease can cause bruising and bleeding without any apparent injury.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, hickey and a bruise are two common types of skin injuries that occur due to different reasons. Hickeys usually occur as a result of physical contact during intimate activities, whereas bruises can happen due to various reasons such as sports injuries, accidents, or medical conditions. While they might seem similar in appearance, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options differ from each other. It is important to identify the cause of the injury and seek medical attention if necessary to avoid any complications.