Hematoma is generally defined as an accumulation of blood outside the blood vessels. Most often, bruises are caused by shock to the wall of a blood vessel, causing blood to seep out of the blood vessel into surrounding tissue.
The presence of a hematoma may be the result of an injury any type of blood vessel (artery, vein Where small capillary). A hematoma usually described bleeding which has more or less coagulated, whereas hemorrhage means active and continuous bleeding from an internal or external wound.
Hematoma is a very common problem encountered by many people at some point in their life. Bruises can take a form subcutaneously or under the nails like the purplish bruises of different sizes. These can also be called bruises. A hematoma can also occur deep inside the body where they may not be visible. It can sometimes form a mass that can be felt by touch. Sometimes it is named based on its location. Here are a few examples:
- Subdural hematoma : located between the brain tissue and the inner wall of the brain.
- Spinal epidural hematoma : located between the vertebral vertebrae and the outer wall of the spinal cord.
- Intracranial epidural hematoma : located between the skull and the outer wall of the brain.
- Subungual hematoma : under the nail.
- Intra-abdominal, peritoneal or retroperitoneal hematoma : located in the abdominal cavity.
- Ear or hearing hematoma : located between the ear cartilage and the overlying skin.
- Splenic hematoma : hematoma of the spleen.
- Hepatic hematoma : liver hematoma.
Most of the time, a hematoma spontaneously disappears over time, as blood residue is removed and the lining of blood vessels is repaired by the body’s repair mechanisms. In other cases, surgical removal or evacuation of blood in a hematoma becomes necessary depending on the symptoms or where it is located.
Can I treat a hematoma myself?
Simple home therapies can be used to treat a superficial hematoma (subcutaneous). Most of wounds can be treated with rest, cold, compression and elevation of the area. These healing measures usually help reduce inflammation..
- Rest
- Ice (Apply the ice or the cold bag for 20 minutes at a time, 4 to 8 times a day).
- Compression (Compression can be achieved by using elastic bandages.
- Elevation (It is recommended to elevate the injured area above the level of the heart).
When using ice packs, apply the ice or cold pack for 20 minutes at a time, 4 to 8 times a day. Compression can be achieved by using elastic bandages, and it is recommended to elevate the injured area above the level of the heart.
Remedy to reabsorb a hematoma
To treat a hematoma and calm the pain, you need to drain the blood pool subcutaneously, we will use an old remedy from grandmother that uses plants, here it is available for everyone. This method will quickly fade the blackish, bluish, reddish color and finally yellowish hematoma. Run to your pharmacist and bring yourself some chamomile.
- Prepare a decoction of dried Chamomile flowers in hot water
- Let cool
- Soak a gauze with the decoction
- Apply the soaked gauze directly to the hematoma, and leave in place for 1/2 hour at least twice a day
Reducing the color of bruises
Fans of medicinal plants will approve, parsley, has always been very effective in soothing inflammation and reducing the color of bruises.
- Blend 1 cup (60 g) of fresh parsley with 1/2 cup (120 ml) of spring water until you obtain a fluid mixture
- Pour this mixture into an ice cube tray and put everything in the freezer
- To use it, wrap an ice cube with gauze or a fine, clean cloth (Do not apply the ice cube directly to the skin)
- Apply to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes.
Should I follow up with my doctor?
The location, the form, the manifestations and the cut a hematoma are the typical factors that determine its proper follow-up by a doctor. For example, a small subdural hematoma without signs (asymptomatic) may only require computed tomography skull regularly for follow-up. On the other hand, the wound of a large hematoma on the leg that would have been opened and drained can be observed within days to ensure the expected improvement. For common hematomas, there is generally no need for medical follow-up, except in cases of persistent pain.
Can a hematoma be avoided?
Prevention of all hematomas is not possible. However, prevention in some contexts deserves special attention.
Among people, especially the elderly, who are taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs (aspirin or clopidogrel), falls or shock, are a common cause of trauma and bruising. Falls can cause bruising in the legs, chest or brain, and can sometimes lead to serious illness or death. Therefore, fall prevention measures in this population may also reduce the frequency of hematomas.
The children also run the risk of developing a hematoma frequently due to falls and minor injuries. In particular, younger people are more likely to bang your head, which causes a small ovoid swelling (lump) in the area of the injury. Therefore, child proofing the home and furniture can help decrease the risk of hematoma in children.
Hematoma that results from trauma from heavy physical labor or to contact sports is less preventable unless these activities are stopped or modified to reduce the risk of trauma and injury.
What are the consequences of a hematoma?
In general, the outlook for the hematoma is favorable and, most of the time, it does not lead to serious illness or disability. The location of a hematoma plays a role in its prognosis. tips and remedies currents favor the use of arnica ointment to reduce swelling.