This article explains more about how to distinguish a hematoma from a bruise.
It also covers why they occur and treatment options.
A bruise may also be referred to asecchymosisor acontusion.
Illustration by Tara Anand for Verywell Health
Those that occur under the surface of your skin are usually quite visible.
Bruises are flat, although mild swelling may be present.
They can be tender to the touch.
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Bruises can also form in deeper tissues, including muscles andbones.
Though you wont see them, you will feel pain and soreness in the area of the injury.
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Bruises usually heal on their own within a week or two.
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They rarely cause serious complications, but can if there are additional injuries.
For example, a black eye from a face injury may cause vision problems.
Characteristics of a Hematoma
Hematomas are larger bleeds that often involve larger blood vessels.
With a hematoma, the leaking blood will pool andclot, or form clumps of blood.
This can cause a hard and tender mass.
As it breaks down, the skin will eventually change to a yellow or brown color.
How long it takes a hematoma to heal on its own will vary.
Healing time ranges from weeks to months, depending on the size and location of the hematoma.
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Should You Worry About a Hematoma?
Hematomas may be something to be concerned about.
They can cause serious harm and if they get large enough, they may causeblood pressure to drop.
Very large hematomas can cause adjacent organs to shift and affect how they function.
Brain and Skull Hematomas
The most dangerous and life-threatening hematomas are in the brain and skull.
With these, the blood can become trapped within the skull and put pressure on the brain.
For suspected bone bruises, an imaging test, like anX-ray, may be ordered to check forbroken bones.
Hematoma vs. Bruise Treatment
You may be able to treat mild bruises or hematomas at home.
Larger or internal hematomas may require medical care.
What Not To Do With a Hematoma
Do not take an NSAID likeAdvil (ibuprofen).
NSAIDs can slow blood clotting and can make the condition worse.
If needed, pain can be controlled withTylenol(acetaminophen).
While bruises rarely cause serious complications, hematomas canparticularly those in the skull or brain.
Most bruises and superficial hematomas can be diagnosed with a physical exam and treated with the RICE method.
Larger or deeper hematomas may require imaging studies and surgery.
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