Evidence supporting the use of: Water
For the health condition: Bruises (prevention)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Water is commonly recommended as part of first aid for bruises, particularly in the form of cold compresses or ice packs. The scientific rationale centers on water's ability to absorb and transfer temperature, allowing cold water or ice to constrict blood vessels (vasoconstriction) when applied to an area of trauma. This process can decrease local blood flow, reducing the leakage of blood into surrounding tissues and potentially limiting the size and severity of bruising. Several clinical guidelines and first-aid protocols endorse the immediate application of a cold compress (often water-based) for 10-20 minutes after an injury to minimize swelling and bruising. However, while cold therapy is widely accepted for acute soft tissue injuries, robust, high-quality studies specifically demonstrating its efficacy in bruise prevention are limited. Most evidence is extrapolated from its anti-inflammatory effects and its ability to reduce edema. There is little evidence to support the use of water for bruises beyond cold therapy (e.g., drinking water or washing the area does not impact bruising). Thus, while the mechanism is plausible and it is common clinical practice, direct scientific validation is moderate at best.

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