Hematoma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is a Hematoma?

A hematoma is a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, typically resulting from trauma or injury. It occurs when blood leaks into tissues after a blood vessel is damaged, causing swelling, pain, and discoloration. Hematomas can form in various parts of the body, including under the skin, within muscles, or in internal organs. Depending on their size and location, hematomas can range from mild to severe, and some may require medical attention to prevent complications.

Causes of Hematoma

• Trauma or Injury. The most common cause of a hematoma is physical trauma, such as a bruise, a fall, or a direct blow to the body, which causes blood vessels to rupture.
• Blood Thinning Medications. Medications such as anticoagulants (blood thinners) can increase the risk of developing a hematoma, even with minor injuries.
• Vascular Conditions. Conditions that affect blood vessels, such as aneurysms or blood vessel fragility, can make individuals more prone to hematomas.
• Underlying Health Conditions. Certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or bleeding disorders, can contribute to hematoma formation due to impaired blood clotting mechanisms.
• Strenuous Exercise. Intense physical activity or excessive exertion can sometimes lead to the rupture of small blood vessels, resulting in hematomas in muscles or tissues.

Symptoms

• Swelling. The affected area may become swollen due to the accumulation of blood under the skin or in tissues.
• Discoloration. Hematomas often cause the skin to change color, ranging from red or purple immediately after injury to green, yellow, or brown as the body heals.
• Pain and Tenderness. The affected area may be painful or tender to the touch due to the pressure from the collected blood and the injury to the blood vessels.
• Limited Movement. If the hematoma is large or located in a muscle, it can cause difficulty with movement, stiffness, or weakness in the affected area.

Treatment Methods

• Rest and Elevation. Resting the affected area and elevating it above the level of the heart can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
• Cold Compress. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the hematoma in the first 24 to 48 hours can help reduce swelling and numb the area to alleviate pain.
• Compression. Wrapping the area with an elastic bandage can help control swelling and provide support to the injured tissue.
• Pain Relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Surgical Drainage. In some cases, if the hematoma is large or causing significant pain or complications, it may need to be drained surgically to relieve pressure and promote healing.