What to do in case of a minor hematoma

Minor hematomas, including bruises, are very common: an accidental bump, a knock from the edge of a piece of furniture, or a trip while moving around the house. These are all cases in which it's pointless to waste time and money on medications, or going to the hospital or doctor. They can usually be treated at home and tend to resolve on their own within a few days or weeks, especially if you do the following:

• In the first 1–2 days it is useful to apply coldApply ice packs wrapped in a cloth for 10–15 minutes, several times a day. This helps reduce internal bleeding, swelling, and pain. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin.
• If the area is on a limb, it may help hold it up when possible, to reduce swelling.
• After 48 hours, it is often more useful light heat (warm compresses) to promote blood reabsorption.
• For pain, only if necessary, you can use over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol. It is best to avoid aspirin in the early stages because it can increase bleeding.
• Avoid vigorously massaging the hematoma in the first few days: it can make it worse.
• Rest: reducing movement prevents the hematoma from worsening and facilitates healing. 
• When the color changes (from blue-purple to green-yellow) it is a normal sign of healing.

Instead, it is better to see a doctor if:

• the hematoma is very large or increases rapidly
• there is severe pain or difficulty moving the area
• appears for no clear reason
• does not improve after 2–3 weeks
• you take blood thinners or have blood clotting problems. 

Read also:

• Small wounds: how to treat them and who to contact
• Why does the knee give way?