Hematology

Hematomas (Bruises)

Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and When to See a Specialist

Hematomas (Bruises)

A hematoma, commonly known as a bruise, is a collection of blood beneath the skin caused by the rupture of small blood vessels. It usually appears after a bump or injury and changes color as it heals, often turning from purple or blue to green and yellow shades.

Most hematomas heal on their own, but bruises that appear without a clear cause or occur frequently may be a sign of a bleeding disorder or another medical condition that requires evaluation.

Why Do Hematomas Occur?

Hematomas can develop for several reasons, including:

  • Bumps, falls, or sports injuries.
  • Surgery or medical procedures.
  • Use of blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants).
  • Bleeding or clotting disorders.
  • Fragile blood vessels.
  • Certain blood-related diseases.
Symptoms of a Hematoma

In addition to skin discoloration, a hematoma may cause:

  • Pain in the affected area.
  • Swelling.
  • Tenderness to the touch.
  • Color changes as the bruise heals.

If a hematoma becomes larger, appears without an obvious injury, or is accompanied by bleeding, it is important to seek medical attention.

What Should You Avoid If You Have a Hematoma?

To help the bruise heal properly, avoid:

  • Applying heat during the first 48 hours.
  • Taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications without medical advice.
  • Attempting to drain the hematoma yourself.
  • Ignoring bruises that do not improve or occur repeatedly.
When Should You See a Hematology Specialist?

Schedule a medical evaluation if you experience:

  • Frequent bruises without an apparent cause.
  • Hematomas that continue to grow or do not disappear.
  • Excessive or difficult-to-control bleeding.
  • A personal or family history of bleeding disorders.
  • Use of anticoagulant medications.
  • Bruising around the eyes, mouth, or after significant injuries.

Early evaluation can help identify the underlying cause and provide the appropriate treatment.

Treatment for Hematomas

Most hematomas improve over several days or weeks and only require rest and basic care.

When bruises are recurrent or related to a bleeding disorder, a Hematology specialist may recommend blood tests and a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause and create an appropriate treatment plan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a hematoma?

A hematoma is a collection of blood beneath the skin caused by the rupture of small blood vessels, usually after an injury.

2. Why do bruises appear without an injury?

Bruises without a clear injury may be related to medications, bleeding disorders, or blood diseases and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

3. How long does a hematoma take to heal?

Most bruises disappear within one to three weeks, depending on their size and the underlying cause.

4. When should I be concerned about a hematoma?

You should seek medical attention if the bruise appears without a known injury, becomes larger, does not improve, occurs frequently, or is accompanied by unusual bleeding.

5. Which specialist treats recurrent hematomas?

A Hematology specialist can evaluate frequent bruising and determine whether it is related to a bleeding disorder or another blood-related condition.