How long does contusion swelling last?

Most contusions simply need time to heal. Soft tissue contusions can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to heal. Bone contusions may take longer — usually a couple of months — depending on how severe the injury is.

How long does a contusion lump last?

It’s important to see your doctor if your bruise swells or becomes a firm lump, because it might mean something more severe happened under the skin. A hematoma is not a bruise. Depending on the cause, it can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks for a hematoma to go away.

How do you know if a contusion is serious?

See your doctor or visit State Urgent Care right away if you notice any of the following symptoms:

1. Abnormal bleeding in the gums, frequent nose bleeds or blood in the urine or stool.
2. Frequent very large, very painful bruises.
3. Numbness or weakness anywhere in the injured limb.
4. Swelling around the bruised skin.

When does a bruise turn into a lump?

Hematoma: After an injury, blood pools under the skin, forming a lump. These heal on their own without the need for treatment. Purpura: These are severe bruises that appear without an injury. They may appear in one spot or multiple areas.

Can contusions cause permanent damage?

Severe contusions should always be treated as soon as possible to prevent or limit permanent harm. Even with treatment, there may be permanent damage—although prompt care can limit the severity of these effects.

When a bruise turns into a hard lump?

A hematoma happens when clotted blood forms a lump under your skin. The area is usually swollen, raised, or painful. A “goose egg” on your head is one example. A hematoma is not the same thing as a hemorrhage — that’s heavy bleeding inside or outside your body.

What’s the difference between a contusion and a hematoma?

A bruise, also known as a contusion, typically appears on the skin after trauma such as a blow to the body. It occurs when the small veins and capillaries under the skin break. A hematoma is a collection (or pooling) of blood outside the blood vessel.

How do you reduce swelling from a contusion?

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1. Rest the bruised area, if possible.
2. Ice the bruise with an ice pack wrapped in a towel. Leave it in place for 10 to 20 minutes. Repeat several times a day for a day or two as needed.
3. Compress the bruised area if it is swelling, using an elastic bandage. Don’t make it too tight.
4. Elevate the injured area.

Can a hematoma last for months?

A large hematoma may last weeks to months and as it heals it will change color and slowly shrink in size. Hematoma pain and swelling may be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications.