Signs and Treatment for Hematoma

Hematoma is the result of internal bleeding. It is the result of a fall, accident or some similar causes for hemorrhage.The abnormality is seen in the form of bruises or ecchymosis and is also known to develop internally. The diagnosis of the condition is mainly to identify whether the bleeding is inter-muscular and intra-muscular.

Signs and Symptoms:

Hematoma shows up, most commonly, in the form of a severe bruise. The accumulated blood is visible under the skin surface, largely due to the accumulation taking place outside the blood vessels. There are formations that resemble welts sometimes and the area is usually taut and hard. This sign of the condition is mainly due to body response. The body creates a blood sac to prevent excessive external bleeding, outside of the blood vessels. While most of the time, the sac eventually dissolves; there are a few stray instances when it grows and turns painful at touch. In the latter, the sac is surgically removed. Hematomas migrate in the connective tissue and hence, it is not uncommon to see the whole limb sometimes looking blue and displaying reduced mobility. The different types of Hematoma include Subgaleal hematoma, Epidural hematoma, Subarachnoid hematoma and the very common Subungual hematoma within the nail. These relate to the areas or specific regions, where the accumulation takes place. While hematomas can measure less than 3-4 mm in diameter, there are some that are as big as the limb affected!

Treatment:

Hematomas that are intracranial in nature need to be addressed immediately. In the case of contusions, there are a number of ice packs available at the pharmacies to cause the much needed reduction in blood flow. These packs are also effective to reduce hemorrhage and swelling. It helps to elevate the limb. As the blood flows away from the area, there is considerable reduction in the swelling as well. It is very important to rest the limb and prevent any further injury. Depending on the cause for the condition, warm towels or heating pads are also used. This quickens repair. The hot and cold applications follow one another, necessarily in that order, to take care of the resultant swelling and increased tissue fluid. At times, a pressure-bandage is used. However, while the first aid of this sort may work most of the time, the development of infection, severe pain, fever and pus should be addressed by a physician only.

Implications of Hematoma:

Hematoma leads to the collection of blood within a tissue or organ and just outside of the blood vessels. The condition can occur anywhere on the body and is the direct result of a fall or accident. Most of the time, the blood is reabsorbed within the system quickly. The outward signs of such hematoma surfaces are in the form of contusions or bruises and/or black-eyes. The condition is most commonly observed under a finger or toenail. Hematomas always accompany fractures. The accumulation of blood should be addressed immediately to avoid complications from setting in, especially if the cause is an accident. The area remains painful for some time and adds to the trauma that usually accompanies a fracture or muscle damage after a fall. Hematoma is neglected most of the time by brushing it aside as a common bruise. However, it should not be neglected if the swelling and pain persists. It is completely treatable and surgery is an option only in severe, advanced cases.