What is a Hematoma?

A hematoma is a collection of blood that pools outside a blood vessel due to damage or trauma. It typically occurs when blood vessels rupture, leading to bleeding under the skin, in muscles, or even inside the brain. Depending on the size and location of the blood accumulation, hematomas can range in severity from minor bruising to internal bleeding.

In cases of severe trauma, a hematoma can lead to complications such as pressure on the brain, which can cause long-term damage.

If a loved one has suffered brain damage due to a hematoma, consulting a Buffalo brain damage lawyer may help you pursue compensation for medical care and ongoing treatment.

What Are the Types of Hematomas?

Hematomas come in several forms, depending on where the blood collects in the body. Knowing what a hematoma is is key. These injuries can occur due to trauma, accidents, or blunt force impacts and can range from mild to life-threatening. 

If you or a loved one has experienced a hematoma due to someone else’s negligence, a Buffalo personal injury lawyer can assist in seeking compensation for your medical expenses and recovery.

Here are some of the most common types of hematomas:

• Subdural hematoma: Blood collects between the brain and its outer covering (the dura), leading to increased pressure on the brain and severe symptoms.
• Epidural hematoma: This occurs when blood pools between the skull and the dura, often as a result of head trauma, and it requires immediate medical intervention.
• Intramuscular hematoma: Blood accumulates within a muscle, usually due to injury, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
• Subungual hematoma: Blood gathers under a fingernail or toenail due to trauma or pressure, which can be painful and may need treatment.

Each type of hematoma poses different risks, requiring medical evaluation to determine the appropriate treatment.

How Are Hematomas Treated?

Hematomas are treated by addressing the size, severity, and location of the injury. Small hematomas often heal with rest and monitoring, while more serious cases may require medication or surgery. Below are common treatments for hematomas:

Monitoring and Rest

Doctors typically recommend rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) for minor hematomas. This helps reduce swelling and allows the body to naturally absorb the blood over time. Regular monitoring is necessary to ensure the hematoma doesn’t worsen or cause further complications.

Medication

Medication is often used to manage pain and reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort. In cases of blood clotting or other risks, doctors may prescribe specific medications to address these issues while carefully balancing the risk of further bleeding.

Surgical Intervention

Severe hematomas, particularly those affecting the brain, such as subdural or epidural hematomas, often require surgery. Surgeons may need to drain the pooled blood to relieve pressure or repair damaged blood vessels. This intervention is critical to prevent long-term damage, especially in cases of head trauma.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of a Hematoma?

The long-term effects of a hematoma depend on factors such as the location, size, and severity of the injury. While some hematomas heal completely without complications, others can cause lasting issues, especially if they affect critical areas like the brain, spine, or muscles. Some common long-term effects of hematomas include:

• Chronic pain and limited mobility: Hematomas in muscles or joints, such as intramuscular hematomas, may cause scar tissue formation, leading to pain and reduced movement in the affected area.
• Cognitive impairments: Brain-related hematomas, like subdural or epidural hematomas, can result in long-term cognitive issues. Symptoms may include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, or behavioral changes. In severe cases, permanent brain damage may occur.
• Risk of recurrent bleeding: Some individuals may experience a heightened risk of recurring hematomas, particularly if the initial cause, such as a blood clotting disorder or trauma, isn’t fully addressed. This requires ongoing medical attention to prevent future complications.

Managing these long-term effects often requires physical therapy, rehabilitation, and continuous medical monitoring. The severity of the injury can significantly affect a person’s overall quality of life and ability to function independently.

How Can a Lawyer Help with a Hematoma Injury Case?

If you’ve suffered a hematoma due to someone else’s negligence, a lawyer can help you seek compensation. Understanding how lawyers determine fault or negligence in brain injury cases is key to ensuring you get the compensation you deserve, particularly when complex injuries like hematomas are involved.

A lawyer will also negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement. They’ll gather evidence like medical records and expert testimonies to account for all damages, including medical bills and pain and suffering. If necessary, they can take your case to trial to secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact a Lawyer for Hematoma Injury Support

If you or a loved one has suffered from a hematoma due to an accident or negligence, seeking legal help is essential to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Hematomas can lead to significant medical expenses, long-term care needs, and emotional distress. 

With the right legal representation, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer fights for your rights.

Contact Morelli Law Firm today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue compensation for your injury and future care.