Information about Arizona Hematoma Injuries
by Phoenix Hematoma Attorney - Mark Breyer
After an Arizona car accident, slip and fall or any type of accident, many times people call and when we are discussing their injuries, they let us know that they have multiple contusions and bruises all over their body as a result of the accident. As Phoenix personal injury lawyers, although we are not medical doctors, we do need to have an understanding of different medical language.
Many people know that contusions and bruises are also known as hematomas. Hematoma is a medical term, and can often be found on discharge paper work from hospitals. Hematomas can be painful and uncomfortable. A hematoma occurs when blood collects outside of a blood vessel that has been ruptured. Hematomas can be small or large with significant swelling. The body often forms blood clots to stop hematomas from increasing in size.
When someone is involved in a Phoenix car accident, slip and fall, motorcycle accident, or other accident by a negligent party and is seriously injured. Serious accidents often cause hematomas, which can be treated by draining the blood if necessary. If a person has a hematoma cold packs and ice should be applied to the area to reduce bleeding and swelling. The bruised limb should also be elevated above the heart to maintain a constant circulation of blood. Applying a hot compress can also help heal the hematoma but should always be followed by a cold pack, because heat increases swelling. If the hematoma is open there is a risk for infection, if a person is suffering from a fever they should be taken to the emergency room immediately.
If a hematoma is near or in the brain it is considered a medical emergency and must be treated immediately. A hematoma in the brain is much more severe than bruising or a contusion like on other parts of the body. This type of hematoma is also called a subdural hematoma and is formed when blood collects in the outermost layer of the brain. This type of injury is frequently caused by motorcycle accidents.
Subdural hematomas are divided into two categories acute and chronic. Acute hematomas often lead to death because the pressure of the blood on the brain is extremely damaging. Chronic subdural hematomas develop over time and are only visible in about half of the people suffering from this type of brain injury. Signs can be delayed for as much as a week after sustaining a head injury.
