Safety

Bruise vs. Hematoma vs. Compartment Syndrome

Bruise/Contusion: Small blood vessels called capillaries leak blood into the surrounding tissue. This blood is either absorbed by those tissues or cleared out by your immune system.

Hematoma: Caused by leaking and pooling of blood from larger blood vessels. More blood takes the body longer to reabsorb or dispose of the blood, giving it time to coagulate (clot). This causing more discomfort and can be dangerous in certain circumstances and in certain parts of the body.

Compartment Syndrome: If a hematoma or associated inflammation is severe enough compartment syndrome can occur. CS is when inflammation in one of the bodies anatomical compartments is severe enough that blood flow is restricted to the tissue within that compartment.

Blood Thinners

• Prescription drugs like Warfarin (Coumadin) or Heparin
• OTC drugs like Aspirin
• Supplements like Vitamin E, Gingko Biloba, and Melatonin
• Foods like Turmeric, Garlic, and Ginger

First Aid

RICE Protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation

When To Seek Medical Attention:

• If injury fails to heal (pain, swelling, and/or bruising does not begin to decrease) or begins to increase
• If injury progresses from painful to numb
• If signs of infection such as fever or red streaking or blotches develop near the injury