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Heart Health

Aspirin and bruising

October 1, 2021

By Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H, Former Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter

Ask the doctor

Q. After my recent heart attack, my cardiologist told me to start taking a low-dose daily aspirin. Since then, I’ve been noticing more bruising on my arms and legs. I’m not bothered by the cosmetic aspect, but I am worried that it means I may be bleeding on the inside.

A. Most bruises happen when a minor blow or injury damages the tiny blood vessels near the skin’s surface (capillaries). The trapped blood often appears as a black-and-blue mark that may change colors as it heals. Even slight bumps that you don’t even notice can cause bruises.

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About the Author

Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H, Former Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter

Dr. Deepak Bhatt is a cardiologist and lecturer at Harvard Medical School. He is now director of Mount Sinai Heart at the Icahn School of Medicine in New York City. Dr. Bhatt formerly served as the … See Full Bio

View all posts by Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H

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