What is a characteristic of bruising?

Bruising is characterized by its discoloration and tenderness to the touch, which results from blood escaping into the surrounding tissue following damage to small blood vessels. This process can occur due to a variety of impacts or trauma, leading to the typical blue, purple, or yellow hues associated with a bruise over time. The tenderness is a result of irritation to the tissues and nerves in the area, making that option the most accurate description of bruising.

The other characteristics mentioned do not accurately represent bruising dynamics. For instance, bruises do not have to be round or symmetrical; their shape and size can vary significantly depending on the nature and angle of the impact. Furthermore, while bruises may notably feel soft, they typically do not manifest as a raised or hard lump, which is more indicative of a hematoma or other types of swelling caused by injury. Lastly, bruising does not necessarily correlate with severe bleeding; mild trauma can lead to bruising without significant bleeding occurring beneath the skin.