Would you see a GP for unexplained bruising

[Wishitweresunday]

Some bruising appeared overnight on my leg. Wondering if any point running it last a GP. I'm verging on being a bit of a hypochondriac these days. Searching the internet and seems not really a problem but it feels odd to me.

I had blood tests a while ago as I was low in iron so I wonder if related - but if there was a bigger problem I assume the full blood count would have shown something.

If the bruising was extensive so covered a good part of my limb I would, otherwise I wouldn't bother.

Well unexplained bruising can be a sign of blood cancer. It’s not something to automatically dismiss. My Mum had this, but also accompanied by extreme tiredness.
Or, you might have knocked yourself without realising?!

How big is the bruise?

Not a knock, or at least i don't think so, as a few bruises. But not covering half my leg, far from it.

I would see the doctor to put your mind at rest.

Yes, that's quite a bruise if there's really no explanation.

For that I would yes. Have you had a covid jab lately? Could it be a clot?

Just noticed the timing of your post - have you been to GP today?

I would.

I emailed a photo to the GP through the online consultation, which is the only option, and I got a reply saying most bruises are from a bump and he doesn't need to see me. I feel quite sure I didn't bump my leg though, I looked at my legs to see if needed to shave them the night before, and the bruising was there is there morning. Also several smaller bruises. But I guess it means a doctor has seen it and isn't worried.

See how it is in the morning

Of course maybe i did bump my leg and didn't notice is the most likely explanation, and if it's a problem would presumably happen again.

Please tell the doctor if you haven’t knocked it. My mum had leukaemia. It’s definitely better to get yourself checked out. Hopefully it’s something very minor.

Please, please go back to the GP and say you haven't had an injury to cause that bruise, or the other smaller ones. You absolutely would have felt it for a bruise of that size, particularly on the side of your leg rather than the shin.

I cut my ankle open, which required multiple stitches and the bruising wasn't anywhere near that big.

Please go back OP, don't be fobbed off.

Ask for a second opinion. It might be nothing but the GP isn't

I agree with others. GPs aren’t infallible. My mum was fobbed off with the bruising on her breast as being “probably from leaning on the dining table” when she would fall asleep on it. No consideration that falling asleep at the table was itself a worrying sign. Of course it wasn’t that, it was BC.

I’m not suggesting yours is definitely something sinister but I would say that (especially at the moment) the possibility of a blood clot should be investigated when you have such a huge bruise with others around it and no injury to cause it. Unless you sleep with a hammer in your bed, where would it have come from overnight?! Ask for a second opinion. Do you have any pain, inflammation, itching or swelling?

Are you fatigued?

No swelling pain or heat. The GP's message did say to contact them if there was.

I am very tired but I don't sleep well. And I have also wondered about peri menopause which my symptoms fit. And I already know I'm possibly still a bit anemic from when I was tested 6 months ago. So all possible non sinister explanations.

I'm sorry for those of you whose mothers have been ill. I appreciate you sharing that experience.

It's difficult as there isn't really an option other than to go through the e consult with same info again. No new info.