Do Hickeys Cause Blood Clots?
January 6, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Hickeys, which are essentially bruises caused by suction on the skin, do not typically cause blood clots. They occur when small blood vessels near the skin’s surface are broken due to suction or biting, resulting in a temporary discoloration or bruise-like mark on the skin.
While hickeys themselves do not cause blood clots, they are a form of bruising and involve minor damage to blood vessels under the skin. In extremely rare cases, particularly if excessive force is applied or if an individual has a blood clotting disorder, there might be a remote possibility of a blood clot forming as a result of the injury. However, this occurrence is highly unusual.
Blood clots, medically known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or thrombophlebitis, are more commonly associated with other factors such as prolonged immobility, certain medical conditions, surgery, or injury to a vein. They occur deep within the veins and are not typically related to the superficial trauma caused by a hickey.
It’s important to note that hickeys are usually harmless and tend to fade away on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks as the body naturally heals the affected area. However, if someone experiences unusual or severe symptoms after receiving a hickey, such as extreme pain, swelling, or warmth in the area, it’s advisable to seek medical attention to rule out any complications or potential issues.