How long will it take for a hematoma to go down?

While a minor bruise may fade within days, a hematoma's resolution timeline is far more complex. The time it takes for a hematoma to go down can vary significantly, depending on its size, location, and the individual's overall health, with most minor cases resolving in a few weeks.

Quick Summary

The healing time for a hematoma is highly variable, ranging from a couple of weeks for small, superficial collections to several months for larger or deeper ones. The body gradually reabsorbs the pooled blood over time, causing noticeable color changes as a normal part of recovery.

Key Points

• Variable Healing Time: How long a hematoma takes to go down depends on its size and location, ranging from a few weeks to several months.

• Color Changes Are Normal: As your body reabsorbs the pooled blood, the hematoma will transition through red, blue, green, and yellow stages.

• Apply R.I.C.E. for Relief: For superficial hematomas, rest, ice, compression, and elevation can effectively manage swelling and pain in the initial 48 hours.

• Watch for Serious Symptoms: A rapidly growing hematoma, severe pain, numbness, or signs of infection warrant immediate medical evaluation.

• Avoid Blood Thinners: In the acute phase, avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which can increase bleeding; opt for acetaminophen for pain relief.

• Understand the Difference: A hematoma is a deeper, more severe blood pool than a typical bruise and may feel like a firm, painful lump.

What Exactly Is a Hematoma?

A hematoma is a collection of blood outside the blood vessels, often caused by an injury or trauma. Unlike a typical bruise (contusion) which is surface-level bleeding, a hematoma involves a deeper, larger pocket of blood that can clot and form a swollen, firm lump. This can occur under the skin, in muscles, or around internal organs.

Types of Hematomas

Hematomas are classified by location:

• Subcutaneous: Under the skin.
• Intramuscular: Within muscle tissue.
• Subungual: Under a fingernail or toenail.
• Intracranial: Inside the skull, requiring immediate medical care.
• Abdominal: Within the abdomen.

The Standard Hematoma Healing Timeline

The time for a hematoma to resolve depends on its size, type, and location. Small, superficial hematomas may heal in 1 to 4 weeks. Larger or deeper ones can take several months.

The Color-Changing Stages of a Hematoma

As the body reabsorbs the blood, the hematoma changes color, indicating healing:

1. Initially red/purple.
2. Becomes blue/black as hemoglobin breaks down.
3. Transitions to green, then yellow in later stages.

Factors Influencing Hematoma Resolution

Several factors affect healing time:

• Size and Location: Larger and deeper hematomas heal slower.
• Patient's Health: Conditions like clotting disorders or diabetes can impact healing.
• Age: Healing may be slower with age due to fragile skin and blood vessels.
• Medications: Blood thinners can prolong healing.
• Physical Activity: Re-injuring the area can delay recovery.

How to Accelerate Hematoma Healing

For minor, superficial hematomas, at-home care can help:

R.I.C.E. Therapy

Apply the R.I.C.E. method in the first 24-48 hours:

1. Rest: Avoid using the injured area.
2. Ice: Apply a cold pack for 15-20 minutes multiple times daily to reduce swelling.
3. Compression: Use a gentle elastic bandage to minimize swelling.
4. Elevation: Keep the injured area above heart level to aid drainage.

Other Remedies and Considerations

• Heat: After 48 hours, warm compresses can increase blood flow and promote reabsorption.
• OTC Medication: Acetaminophen can relieve pain; avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which can increase bleeding risk.
• Nutrition: Vitamins C and K may support blood health and clotting.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most hematomas aren't serious, some require medical evaluation. See a doctor if:

• The bruise doesn't improve after two weeks.
• The hematoma is severely painful, very swollen, or growing.
• You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness.
• There are signs of infection: increased pain, warmth, redness, or pus.
• A hematoma develops after a head injury with severe headache, confusion, or vision changes.

Hematoma vs. Bruise: What's the Difference?

Feature	Hematoma	Bruise (Contusion)
Bleeding Source	Larger blood vessels (arteries or veins)	Small capillaries
Appearance	Raised, firm, and tender lump	Flat, discolored patch
Depth	Deep within tissue or body cavity	Shallow, just under the skin's surface
Size	Larger, often more significant	Smaller, more localized
Pain Level	Often more significant and lasting pain	Milder, typically fades in days
Healing Time	Weeks to months	Days to weeks

Conclusion

Knowing the difference between a bruise and a hematoma is important for recovery. For most superficial hematomas, R.I.C.E. and time are effective. However, monitor the hematoma's characteristics and seek professional help if needed. For more information, consult authoritative resources such as the Cleveland Clinic website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a bruise and a hematoma?

A bruise (contusion) results from bleeding of small, surface-level capillaries and is typically flat and less severe. A hematoma involves a deeper collection of blood from larger vessels, forming a raised, often firmer lump under the skin.

How can I speed up the healing of a hematoma?

For minor hematomas, applying the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) immediately after injury is most effective. After 48 hours, applying a warm compress can increase blood flow to promote faster reabsorption.

When should I be worried about a hematoma?

You should be concerned if a hematoma doesn't fade after two weeks, grows rapidly, is accompanied by numbness or severe pain, or shows signs of infection like pus or red streaks. Any hematoma following a head injury requires immediate medical attention.

Is it normal for a hematoma to feel hard?

Yes, it is normal for a hematoma to feel hard or lumpy as the blood pools and clots under the skin. This firm texture is one of the key differences that distinguishes it from a typical bruise.

What if a hematoma forms after surgery?

Post-surgical hematomas are a known complication. If you develop one, your surgeon should evaluate it. Many will resolve on their own, but larger or expanding ones may require drainage or other intervention.

Will a hematoma on my leg take longer to heal?

A hematoma on a limb, such as the leg, can sometimes take longer to heal due to gravity's effect on blood flow. Elevating the leg can significantly help reduce swelling and assist the healing process.

Can a hematoma get infected?

Yes, a hematoma can become a breeding ground for bacteria and develop into an infection. Signs to watch for include increased pain, warmth, redness, and pus draining from the area. If this occurs, seek medical care promptly.