Hematoma: Everything you Need to Know

A hematoma is a collection of blood that pools outside the blood vessels due to an injury or trauma. It’s similar to a bruise but involves a larger amount of blood and can occur in various parts of the body, including under the skin, in muscles, or in organs. The severity of a hematoma can range from minor, which may resolve on its own, to severe, which could be life-threatening and require medical intervention. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, and discoloration. Treatment depends on the location and size of the hematoma and may involve rest, ice, compression, and elevation for minor cases, or surgical procedures for more serious cases. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you suspect you have a hematoma, especially if it’s large, painful, or resulting from a significant injury.

It’s important to identify the type of hematoma, as it can influence the treatment approach and potential complications.

                            Types of Hematomas

There are several different types of hematomas that can occur in various parts of the body. Some common types include:

1. Subcutaneous Hematoma: This type of hematoma occurs just below the skin’s surface. It usually results from trauma or injury, such as a direct blow or a fall. Subcutaneous hematomas often appear as localized swelling, discoloration (bruising), and tenderness in the affected area.

2. Intramuscular Hematoma: Intramuscular hematomas occur within muscle tissue. They typically result from significant trauma or injury that damages blood vessels within the muscle. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the affected muscle group.

3. Subungual Hematoma: Subungual hematomas specifically occur beneath the fingernail or to

enail. They are often caused by crushing injuries to the digits, such as slamming a finger in a door. Subungual hematomas cause intense pain, swelling, and bleeding under the nail, often resulting in a dark discoloration.

4. Epidural Hematoma: An epidural hematoma is a type of hematoma that forms between the skull and the protective covering of the brain (the dura mater). It usually occurs due to a severe head injury that causes bleeding from damaged blood vessels. Epidural hematomas can be life-threatening because the accumulating blood can put pressure on the brain, leading to neurological symptoms such as headache, confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness.

5. Subdural Hematoma: Subdural hematomas also involve bleeding within the skull, but the occurs beneath the dura mater, closer to the brain. They typically result from a head injury that causes tearing of the veins between the brain and the skull. Subdural hematomas often present with symptoms such as headache, confusion, drowsiness, or neurological deficits.

6. Intracerebral Hematoma: Intracerebral hematomas occur within the brain tissue itself. They can be caused by trauma, ruptured blood vessels, or underlying medical conditions. Intracerebral hematomas can lead to symptoms such as severe headache, loss of consciousness, paralysis, or difficulty speaking.

These are just a few examples of the different types of hematomas that can occur. It’s important to note that each type may require specific diagnosis, management, and treatment approaches based on its location and severity. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial for appropriate evaluation and care of a hematoma.