What To Know about a Hematoma...

Liudmila Chernetska / Getty Images' title='Doctor examining hematoma on patient's leg'>

Liudmila Chernetska / Getty Images

Medically reviewed by Amelia MacIntyre, DOMedically reviewed by Amelia MacIntyre, DOA hematoma is a pooling of blood beneath the skin that forms after damage, like an injury or surgical procedure. Hematomas can occur in virtually any part of the body and range from minor to life-threatening. Risk factors such as being an older adult or taking some types of medications may increase your likelihood of developing a hematoma.In addition to visible skin discoloration similar to a bruise, hematoma symptoms often include pain and swelling. A healthcare provider can offer treatment options for a hematoma based on its size, location, and severity.Types of HematomasThere are many types of hematomas, each based on where they're located in the body. Some of the most common types include:Abdominal: This hematoma occurs in the abdomen or abdominal wall and may lead to blood buildup in other nearby organs.Auricular: Hematomas in the ear may affect the area's blood supply, causing ear tissues to die off or become deformed.Intracranial: Located in the head, this hematoma can either be epidural (between the skull and brain covering) or subdural (between the brain covering and the area just outside the brain).Intramuscular: This hematoma occurs inside the muscle tissue and often causes inflammation, swelling, and irritation.Septal: Blood that collects in the nose, specifically between the nostrils, can occur after a broken nose or septum surgery.Subungal: With this hematoma, blood pools underneath a fingernail or toenail, causing pain and pressure.Subcutaneous hematoma: This type of hematoma develops underneath the skin and often occurs when you take a blood-thinning medication or have other bleeding-related conditions.Hematoma SymptomsThe most noticeable symptom of a hematoma—if it's located in a visible part of the body—is a large patch of skin discoloration, like a bruise. It generally appears as darker shades of red, black, and blue. It occurs due to damage to the soft tissue and blood vessels in that part of the body.Hematomas can also cause symptoms such as:PainSwellingTendernessSigns of a more serious hematoma (usually intracranial, or located on the head) include:Severe headacheVomitingDizzinessConfusionDrowsinessSpeech slurringChanges in pupil sizeCausesHematomas are caused by damage to a certain body part, usually from hard impact. The type of injury can vary—from a stubbed toe, fall, head injury, aneurysm (a bulge in an artery, a vessel that sends oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body), or surgical procedure.Hematomas typically develop when larger blood vessels are damaged. This allows blood to leak out and collect ("pool") in a concentrated area.Risk FactorsSome people may be more likely to experience a hematoma, including:Older adultsPeople who have recently undergone surgeryPeople who regularly take medications that affect bleeding and bruising, such as aspirin or Advil (ibuprofen), blood thinners, steroids, and some antidepressantsPeople with certain health conditions, including blood disorders like hemophilia and von Willebrand disease (both related to ineffective blood clotting)DiagnosisA healthcare provider can diagnose some hematomas by visually inspecting the area. They'll also ask about your medical history, symptoms, medications you currently take, and any recent falls or injuries you may have experienced.More serious hematomas located near major organs—especially those in the head area—may require a diagnosis with imaging and other tests. This is because injuries to the head can become severe or life-threatening.For these cases, the following tests may be used:Computed tomography (CT) scan: Generates images using X-rays and computer technology that may be helpful for hematomas located in the head or other deep-seated internal areasMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: Uses radio waves to help identify the size and location of hematomas within soft tissue structures in the bodyUltrasound imaging: Uses sound waves to collect images of underlying tissues in the body, particularly in the abdominal areaBlood tests: May be ordered to check the body's blood clotting ability and identify blood clotting disordersHematoma TreatmentThe overall goals of treatment are to heal the hematoma, avoid complications, and reduce pain or discomfort. Specific treatment plans vary based on the type of hematoma, its severity, and underlying health conditions.Minor hematomas—for example, a small one underneath your nail—typically resolve on their own relatively quickly.Hematomas that cause pain or swelling, such as a hematoma on the muscle, may be treated with the RICE method. This involves resting, icing, using compression, and elevating the affected area. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications may also be used—except for aspirin, which can make you bleed more easily.Severe hematoma treatment depends on its size, location, and other factors. It may require surgical drainage or removal before blood starts clotting and forming a solid mass. This might be the case when your hematoma is:Pressing on a blood vessel or nerveCausing tissue damageLikely to cause infection or complicationsHematomas that affect the head or skull could require:Bed rest and observation: A healthcare provider closely monitors you for any potential issues or complications.Brain surgery: A hole is drilled into the skull to drain the pooled blood, or a piece of the skull bone is removed to extract the collected blood.PreventionHematomas aren't always entirely preventable. However, some recommended strategies can help you avoid experiencing an injury and developing a hematoma. For example:Prevent falls or accidents: Set up a safe, fall-proof home, avoid potentially hazardous physical activities, and build strength and balance through physical activity.Consider your medications: Medications like blood thinners can prevent blood clots from forming. Discuss your risk of hematomas and bleeding-related conditions with your healthcare provider.Be aware of any surgery risks: Always ask your surgeon or healthcare provider about specific steps to take if you're concerned about post-operation (post-op) hematomas.Related ComplicationsSome types of hematomas, if left untreated, can cause complications.For example, a hematoma that develops near the brain and isn't diagnosed could lead to unresolved symptoms like severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, and more.In other cases, a hematoma could lead to infection, pressure on nearby tissues or organs, and nerve or tissue damage.A Quick ReviewHematomas are bruise-like discolorations that occur when blood pools underneath the skin. They result from damage or injury to blood vessels in the area.Depending on the location and severity, hematomas can range from harmless to life-threatening. While anyone can develop a hematoma, older adults and people who have bleeding disorders or take blood-thinning medications are most at risk and should take caution to prevent injuries.Frequently Asked Questions

How serious is a hematoma?

Depending on its type, location, and other factors, a hematoma's severity can range from mild and requiring no treatment to serious and life-threatening. A healthcare provider can evaluate your hematoma and offer details on what to expect.

Will a hematoma go away on its own?

Depending on their size and location, some mild hematomas will resolve on their own within several days. Others may require observation and treatment.

Can a hematoma leave a permanent lump?

A lump caused by a hematoma will typically dissolve over time. If you notice a hematoma-related lump that's growing or doesn't seem to be shrinking, check with a healthcare provider, as this may require surgical removal.

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