How does hematoma form

A hematoma is caused by an injury with damage to small blood vessels. This causes blood to leak into the tissues. Blood forms a pocket under the skin that swells and looks like a purplish patch.

Hematomas sometimes form under the skin from bleeding during childbirth and can be particularly serious. Another serious form of hematoma forms after a fall on the head, called a subdural hematoma. Gradually the blood in the hematoma is absorbed back into the body. The swelling and pain of the hematoma will go away. This takes from 1 to 4 weeks, depending on the size of the hematoma. The skin over the hematoma may turn bluish then brown and yellow as the blood is dissolved and absorbed.

Usually, this only takes a couple of weeks but can last months. Limit motion of the joints near the hematoma. If the hematoma is large and painful, avoid sports and other vigorous physical activity until the swelling and pain goes away. Apply an ice pack ice cubes in a plastic bag, or a frozen bag of peas, wrapped in a thin towel over the injured area for 20 minutes every 1 to 2 hours the first day.

Continue with ice packs 3 to 4 times a day for the next 2 days. Continue the use of ice packs for relief of pain and swelling as needed. More significant injuries, such as those sustained from vehicle crashes, falling from a height, or an aneurysm can also cause severe hematomas. Some surgical procedures, including medical, dental, or cosmetic operations, may lead to a hematoma as they can damage nearby tissues and blood vessels.

Some blood thinners may also increase the risk of hematomas. People who regularly take aspirin , warfarin, or dipyridamole Persantine may be more likely to experience bleeding problems, including hematomas. Internal hematomas may be more difficult to recognize. Anyone who has been in an accident or sustained a serious injury should regularly check in with a doctor to screen for hematomas. Hematomas in the skull may be particularly dangerous.

Even after seeing a doctor about an injury, it is essential to keep an eye out for new symptoms, such as:. Symptoms may not present immediately, but they usually appear within the first few days.

The authors of a study noted that the symptoms of subdural hematomas tend to occur within 72 hours of the injury. The discoloration and tenderness in the affected area tend to make people believe that hematomas and bruises are the same.

A bruise develops when blood leaks from smaller blood vessels, causing a purple, blue, or darkened spot to appear on the skin. The bruise changes color as it heals, typically lightening or turning yellow before fading completely. Bruises generally are not serious.

In contrast, a hematoma is a leakage from a larger blood vessel. The mark that it leaves might be dark blue or black, but it can also cause significant redness. More severe traumas cause hematomas, which may be serious and require medical treatment. Most bruises heal on their own without the need for treatment.

Severe bruises are rare, but they may damage the inner tissues or organs and require treatment to prevent infection. Some people may be more prone to bruising, including people who have anemia or vitamin deficiencies and those who take blood thinners. In some cases, a hematoma will not require treatment. The body will usually reabsorb the blood from the hematoma over time.

To manage a hematoma under the skin, nail, or other soft tissue, a person should rest the injured area and apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel to reduce any pain or swelling. It may help to wrap or splint the area around the hematoma to keep the blood vessel from reopening as it heals. A doctor will give a person specific instructions on how to do this if it is necessary.

Doctors may recommend some over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers if the injury is painful. They will usually advise a person to avoid certain pain relievers, such as aspirin, which thin the blood and may make the hematoma worse.

Sometimes, a hematoma may require surgical drainage. Surgery may be more likely if the blood is putting pressure on the spinal cord, brain, or other organs. In other cases, doctors may want to drain a hematoma that is at risk of infection. Surgical treatment may not be necessary in all cases, even when the hematoma is inside the skull. For example, in a study of people with a subdural hematoma, the authors noted that the majority received conservative treatment.

Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. Causes Symptoms Treatment Outlook We include products we think are useful for our readers. What is a hematoma? A hematoma is the result of a traumatic injury to your skin or the tissues underneath your skin. Hematomas can occur anywhere in your body, including your leg. Causes of hematoma in your leg.

Leg hematoma symptoms. Treating a hematoma in your leg. Read this next. Subdural Hematoma. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Epidural Hematoma. Medically reviewed by University of Illinois.