Bruising may occur frequently in patients who take blood thinners, and the bruises could be large, painful, and slow to heal. To protect against bruising, patients should be very careful when handling sharp or abrasive objects, including kitchen utensils.

Certain types of drugs can make you more likely to bruise: Blood thinners. If you start taking a blood thinner or another drug (like aspirin) that makes it harder for your blood to clot, you may get more bruises than you’ve had in the past.

Exposure to certain medications, such as long-term steroids, blood thinners (aspirin, NSAIDs), as well as natural supplements, like vitamin E and fish oil, can make people more susceptible to bruising, so avoiding these might help. However, always consult with a physician prior to stopping any.

Corticosteroids thin the skin, making it easier to bruise. Certain dietary supplements, such as ginkgo biloba, also can increase bruising risk due to a blood-thinning effect. If you experience increased bruising, don't stop taking your medications. Talk to your health care provider about your concerns.