A contusion, also known as a bruise, is an injury that results from broken blood vessels under the skin, while a hematoma is a pooling of blood outside of a blood vessel.
Understanding Contusions (Bruises)
A contusion, commonly called a bruise, is typically the result of trauma, like a blow to the body. The impact causes small veins and capillaries beneath the skin to rupture, leading to blood leaking into the surrounding tissues.
- Appearance: Bruises often start out reddish or purplish, then change color over time as the body absorbs the leaked blood. They can be tender to the touch.
- Cause: Direct impact or force to the body, such as falling or being struck by an object, causes a contusion.
- Location: They typically occur near the surface of the skin or in muscle tissue.
- Healing: Bruises usually heal within a few days or weeks without medical intervention.
Understanding Hematomas
A hematoma is a more serious collection of blood that has accumulated outside of a blood vessel. This can occur due to significant injury, and can be found under the skin, in muscle, or even internally around organs.
- Appearance: A hematoma may appear as a raised lump or swelling, and can feel firm or spongy to the touch.
- Cause: More significant trauma or injury that ruptures larger blood vessels.
- Location: Hematomas can occur both under the skin and deeper within the body.
- Healing: Depending on the size and location of the hematoma, it might require medical attention to drain or resolve.
Key Differences in a Table
| Feature | Contusion (Bruise) | Hematoma |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Ruptured small blood vessels under the skin. | Blood collected outside a blood vessel. |
| Appearance | Flat, discolored mark on the skin | Swelling or raised lump |
| Cause | Minor trauma or impact | More significant trauma causing blood pooling |
| Blood Location | Leaked blood in surrounding tissues | Collected blood outside of blood vessels |
| Severity | Generally minor | Can be more severe, requiring medical attention |
| Healing | Usually heals on its own | May require medical intervention |
Summary
In simple terms, a bruise is like a small leak of blood under the skin, while a hematoma is like a larger pool of blood that has collected outside of a blood vessel. Bruises typically result from minor injuries, while hematomas often are caused by more significant trauma.
