When it occurs in patients suffering from MS, bruising is often cause for concern. Many patients worry about the reasons for the multiple sclerosis-bruising coincidence: they wonder if their bruises are an indication that their condition is deteriorating. Patients may also worry about their appearance.

The ease with which some patients bruise, and the scars left behind when their bruises heal can leave them feeling self-conscious about their appearance. They may stop wearing shorts and short-sleeved shirts because they are alarmed about the appearance of the bruises and scars and do not want to draw too much attention to themselves. With the above considerations in mind, bruising in MS patients can be described as both a medical problem and an aesthetic problem. Attempts to understand what is behind the bruising and to manage it should take into account both of these concerns on the part of patients.

 

The Circumstances