Hematoma Treatment: When Should You See a Doctor?


Many hematomas are harmless bruises that will recede in a few days. However, there are hematomas in the brain or other internal organs that are more dangerous, and sometimes unbeknown to have formed and not outwardly noticeable.

Self-healing or medical care?

For complaints after a blow to the head you should absolutely seek medical treatment. For small blood clots in the head you can often do without a special bruise treatment, because the physical self-healing forces are clearing away the hematoma. Patients who suffer from pressure of the hematoma on the brain can be helped by surgery. At surgery, the blood is drawn off to releive the brain from pressure.

Other hematomas can usually be treated with simple care. If you apply ice on a fresh bruise immediately, the bleeding can be stopped. Due to the cold, the blood vessels are contracted. Also, elevating the injured area may reduce the blood flow. In the days after the injury, movements that could burden the affected area should be restricted. To support the healing process, there are different gels and ointments available. The ingredients of heparin and hirudin promote the resolution of the hematoma. Arnica albums are anti-inflammatory, analgesic and decongestant. With preparations, pineapple contains enzymes that can effectively treat bruises, because they promote healing. However, you should not use it if you have bleeding disorders.

When to talk to your the doctor?

Larger hematomas can easily catch fire, because they are a breeding ground for many bacteria. Hematoma near joints can damage joints, encapsulated hematomas in the head may be the cause of constant nausea and headaches. In all these cases home remedies can’t help much. These hematomas should be surgically removed.

In general, you should seek medical help if:

  • You have very large bruises.
  • You experience severe pain or swelling.
  • Hematomas due to strong impact injuries to the head, eyes or bruising of the genitalia.
  • Hematomas develop spontaneously (there is no external influences).