Bruising

[suedup]

I have been going to the gym for 6 months, eating healthy and taking vitamin supplements.  A month ago I started taking Xenical.  I have noticed several bruises appearing since starting this drug.  Bruising is not said to be one of the side effects.  Can you shed some light on why I am brusing so much?

[katey]

Bruising easily can be a symptom of anemia.  You could go to your doctor and have a blood test to check your hemoglobin.  I'm not really sure of anything else that would cause bruising.

[Doug]

Usually bruising is caused by a reduction in platelets.  Some medications can cause this.  I am not sure if the medication you are taking could be the cause.  You may want to question the pharmacist or your doctor.  Katey is correct in suggesting that you have a complete blood count (CBC) done.  This is a simple and inexpensive blood test that counts blood cells such as white cells, red cells, hemogolobin, hematocrit, platelets, etc.  Your doctor will be able to readily detect if further evaluation is required from this simple test.  Bruising can have many causes, the most serious I think would be leukemia, although if no other symptoms are present (e.g. fatigue, infection, gums bleeding, etc.) leukemia is unlikely...bottom line check it out with your doctor.