Hickeys and Blood Clots: Risks and What to Watch For

Hickeys, also known as love bites, are bruises caused by sucking or kissing the skin. They are usually harmless and go away on their own in a few days. However, hickeys can sometimes cause blood clots. This is because the suction created by the kissing can damage the blood vessels in the skin, leading to the formation of a clot.

Blood clots can be dangerous if they travel to the lungs or heart. This is a rare but serious complication of hickeys. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness after getting a hickey, it is important to see a doctor immediately.

To reduce the risk of blood clots, avoid getting hickeys on the neck or chest. If you do get a hickey, apply a cold compress to the area to help reduce swelling and pain. If the hickey does not go away within a few days, or if you experience any symptoms of a blood clot, see a doctor.