Very painful swelling around the welt A welt that does not improve within a week A lump forming around the welt Any welts to the nose or eye area A raised area with extreme discoloration A bruise that shows the pores of the skin (looks polka-dotted) If you experience abnormal bleeding elsewhere, such as from your nose or in urine or stools

You can buy an ice pack at a drug store. Just be sure not to apply it directly to your skin. Wrap it in a towel beforehand. You can also put ice cubes in a plastic bag or use a bag of frozen vegetables. [1] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Make sure the ice or cold pack is wrapped in a towel or cloth to protect yourself from frostbite. You should apply a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time a few times a day as symptoms persist. [2] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source After 48 hours, run warm water over a washcloth and then apply it to the bruise.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) are probably your best options for over-the-counter pain relief and reduction in swelling. Follow dosage instructions on the package. [3] X Research source Before taking an over-the-counter medications, you should always talk to a pharmacist to make sure the meds won’t interact negatively with any existing medication you’re taking. [4] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source

Stop by your local pharmacy and see if they carry Vitamin K creams. Ask for instructions on how to apply. Some people find Vitamin K cuts down on healing time. Vitamin C is found in foods like citrus fruits, pineapples, and apples. Upping your intake of natural Vitamin C may have some effect on the healing time of a welt.

Adding essential oils to the bath may also be beneficial. Try lavender or geranium.

Do not play paintball if it’s rained recently as wet terrain can be dangerous. Choose flat, open terrain over wooded areas with lots of hills and cliffs. [6] X Research source