Hematoma: How to Care for Your Child

A hematoma happens when a blood vessel is injured and blood leaks out. The blood forms a clot (lump) under the skin, between muscles, or around organs inside the body. Kids can get a hematoma when they bump into something or fall. Most hematomas get better in a few weeks. Sometimes health care providers treat a hematoma by draining it. Cold packs and pain medicine can help your child feel better.

• If the health care provider drained the hematoma, follow the instructions for cleaning and bandaging the wound.

• To reduce pain and swelling: 

  • Have your child take a break from activities that could lead to another hematoma in the same area.

  • In the first 2–3 days, apply ice wrapped in a cloth for 10–15 minutes, 3–4 times a day. Do not put ice directly on the skin.

• Do not apply heat to a hematoma unless your health care provider recommended it.

• You can give medicine for pain if your health care provider says it's OK. Use these medicines exactly as directed:

  • acetaminophen (such as Tylenol® or a store brand)

  • OR

  • ibuprofen (such as Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand). Do not give to babies under 6 months old.

• The hematoma goes away and then comes back.

• Swelling gets worse.

• Your child's pain gets worse or does not improve in a few days.

• Your child develops a fever.

• Your child has redness, warmth, or swelling over the hematoma.

How do health care providers diagnose a hematoma? Health care providers diagnose hematomas by checking the injured area and asking questions about the injury. Usually X-rays and other tests are not needed.

When does a hematoma need to be drained? Doctors may drain a hematoma if it is:

• under a fingernail or toenail 

• in the nose 

• on the ear

• near an organ in the body

Can hematomas be prevented? If your child is involved in sports, wearing proper safety gear can help prevent hematomas.