Symptoms and Signs of Hematoma

Medical Author:
Medically Reviewed on 10/25/2022

Doctor's Notes on Hematoma

A hematoma is a collection of blood outside of a blood vessel. Hematomas can occur anywhere in the body and are often described by their location, such as subdural hematoma, epidural hematoma, intra-abdominal hematoma, or hepatic hematoma. Hematomas can be caused by bleeding due to any cause including:

  • trauma or injury,
  • defects in blood vessels, or
  • problems with blood clotting.

Symptoms and signs of hematomas may include:

  • bluish discoloration of the skin or
  • a lump beneath the skin.

When the hematoma is present inside the skull cavity, associated symptoms and signs can include:

  • headache,
  • confusion, 
  • seizures,
  • loss of bladder or bowel control, or
  • other neurologic symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of a hematoma are very specific to the exact location within the body.

What Is the Treatment for Hematoma?

Treatment of a hematoma may involve the following to reduce further bleeding:

  • Rest
  • Ice packs
  • Compression
  • Elevation of the affected area

In some cases, a procedure may be required to remove blood from the area of the hematoma. Other treatments depend on the underlying cause of the hematoma and the presence of other associated injuries.

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REFERENCE:

Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.