Is it normal to have a lump underneath a bruise?

October 1, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a hematoma, which is a collection of blood that pools and clots under the skin, is the cause of a lump forming underneath a bruise. While most minor hematomas resolve on their own, understanding the difference between a simple contusion and a hematoma is crucial for proper care. So, is it normal to have a lump underneath a bruise? Yes, but monitoring its characteristics is important.

Quick Summary

A lump underneath a bruise is often a hematoma, a collection of blood that pools under the skin following an injury. While minor cases are normal and heal with home care, some lumps can indicate a more serious issue. Key differences exist between a simple bruise (contusion) and a hematoma, influencing treatment and the need for medical intervention.

Key Points

Normal to have a lump: A lump underneath a bruise is a hematoma, a common and usually harmless collection of clotted blood that the body eventually reabsorbs.
Use RICE method for treatment: For minor hematomas, applying the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is the standard home treatment to manage swelling and pain.
Monitor for warning signs: Seek medical attention if the lump is severely painful, grows larger after 48 hours, is located on the head or abdomen, or is accompanied by numbness or vision changes.
Understand the healing process: The lump's size and firmness should gradually decrease over several weeks or months as the body breaks down the clotted blood.
Hematoma vs. deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A superficial hematoma is not the same as a DVT, which is a blood clot inside a vein; however, any unusual or painful swelling should be evaluated.
Consult a professional for concerns: If you are concerned about the lump or its healing progress, or if it persists for more than two weeks, it is wise to consult a healthcare provider.

A bruise, also known as a contusion, is the result of damaged capillaries leaking blood into the surrounding tissue just beneath the skin's surface. When this blood pools and clots in a more localized, deeper area, it forms a lump called a hematoma. Though often alarming, a small, firm lump under a bruise is typically a normal part of the healing process, and the body will reabsorb the blood over time. However, the size, location, and accompanying symptoms are important factors in determining if the lump requires medical attention.

What is the difference between a bruise and a hematoma?

While related, a bruise and a hematoma have key differences. A bruise is a smaller, more widespread area of discoloration caused by minor capillary damage, resulting in the classic black-and-blue coloration. A hematoma is a larger, more concentrated collection of blood that pools and often clots, creating a distinct, raised lump that can feel rubbery or firm to the touch.

The formation process

Trauma: An impact or injury damages tiny blood vessels (capillaries) beneath the skin.
Blood leakage: Blood leaks out of the damaged vessels into the surrounding tissue.
Contusion (Bruise) vs. Hematoma: If the blood spreads out thinly, it appears as a typical flat bruise. If a larger volume of blood pools together and clots in a contained pocket, a hematoma forms, creating a lump.
Healing: The body gradually breaks down and reabsorbs the pooled blood, causing the lump and discoloration to fade over several weeks or months.

When to seek medical attention

While most lumps under bruises are benign, some signs indicate a more serious condition that requires a doctor's evaluation.

Unusual pain or swelling: If the pain is severe or the lump continues to grow and swell after the first 48 hours.
Location: A lump on the head, abdomen, or near a joint should be checked by a professional.
Neurological symptoms: Any associated symptoms like weakness, numbness, vision problems, or confusion warrant immediate medical attention.
Persistent lump: A lump that does not go away or changes in texture after several weeks should be evaluated.
Mechanism of injury: A severe injury or blunt force trauma can cause deeper, more dangerous internal bleeding.

Comparison of minor hematoma and a regular bruise


Feature	Minor Hematoma (Lump Under Bruise)	Regular Bruise (Contusion)
Appearance	Raised, swollen, firm or rubbery lump with discoloration.	Flat area of skin discoloration (red, blue, purple, yellow, green).
Cause	Larger collection of blood that pools and clots under the skin after an injury.	Smaller leakage of blood from damaged capillaries under the skin.
Pain Level	Can be more painful and tender due to pressure from pooled blood.	Mild tenderness and soreness.
Feeling	Often feels like a distinct, spongy, or firm mass.	Feels like a flat, tender patch on the skin.
Healing Time	Can take several weeks to months to completely resolve as the body reabsorbs the clotted blood.	Typically fades within 1-2 weeks as the body breaks down leaked blood.

How to treat a minor hematoma at home

For a small, non-threatening hematoma, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) is the recommended first-line treatment.

Rest: Avoid using the injured area to prevent further damage and allow the body to heal.
Ice: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel for 10-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, during the first 24-48 hours. This helps reduce swelling and pain.
Compression: Gently wrap the area with an elastic bandage to help limit swelling, but ensure it is not too tight.
Elevation: Prop the injured body part above the level of your heart to help decrease swelling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding a lump underneath a bruise is not uncommon and is most likely a hematoma, a collection of clotted blood. While typically harmless and treatable at home with the RICE method, it is crucial to recognize warning signs that may indicate a more serious problem. If you experience excessive pain, growing swelling, or other concerning symptoms like numbness or weakness, consulting a healthcare professional is the safest course of action to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Key takeaways

A lump under a bruise is a hematoma: This is a localized pooling and clotting of blood beneath the skin, often a normal part of the healing process.
RICE is the first-line treatment: For most minor cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) helps reduce swelling and pain.
Healing can take time: The body gradually reabsorbs the blood clot, and the lump and discoloration will fade over several weeks to months.
Know when to see a doctor: Seek medical attention if the lump is very painful, grows rapidly, is located on the head or abdomen, or if you experience associated nerve symptoms.
Hematomas are not always serious: Minor surface hematomas are not the same as dangerous blood clots that form within veins, though they require monitoring.
Distinguish a hematoma from a bruise: A hematoma is a distinct, raised lump, while a regular bruise (contusion) is a flat area of discoloration.

Frequently Asked Questions

A hematoma is a localized collection of clotted blood that forms a raised, often firm lump under the skin after an injury. A typical bruise, or contusion, involves smaller, more spread-out blood leakage from capillaries, resulting in a flat area of discoloration rather than a distinct lump.

Yes, it is normal for the lump from a hematoma to feel firm or even hard, especially soon after the injury, as the blood has clotted and pooled in one area. As the body reabsorbs the blood, the lump should gradually soften and dissipate.

You should be concerned if the lump is excessively painful, increases in size rapidly after the initial injury, or is located on the head, abdomen, or near a joint. Other red flags include numbness, weakness, or any vision changes.

The standard approach for a minor hematoma is the RICE method: Rest the area, apply Ice packs wrapped in a towel for 10-20 minutes several times a day, use a Compression bandage to control swelling, and Elevate the injured limb above the heart.

Minor surface hematomas can take a few weeks to several months to fully resolve. The healing process involves the body breaking down and reabsorbing the clotted blood, often accompanied by a gradual color change from dark purple to yellowish-brown.

While a hematoma contains clotted blood, it is not the same as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious blood clot inside a major vein. The pooling of blood in a superficial hematoma is outside of the blood vessels and usually not a cause for concern. However, if swelling or pain is severe, a doctor should check for a DVT.

If you experience bruising frequently or without explanation, it could be caused by factors such as age (thinner skin), certain medications (like blood thinners), or an underlying medical condition, such as a bleeding disorder. It is best to consult a doctor if this occurs frequently.