What is the long-term treatment recommendation for a hematoma?

The long-term treatment recommendation for a hematoma includes applying cold compression in the initial phase, specifically for the first 12 hours after injury or bleeding occurs. This cold therapy helps to constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the area and minimizing swelling and pain. After this acute phase, transitioning to warm compression is recommended. The warmth promotes increased blood flow to the area, which aids in the resorption of the hematoma and helps to alleviate discomfort.

This method strikes a balance between managing inflammation and facilitating healing of the hematoma over time. It is important to provide appropriate care that evolves with the stages of healing instead of relying on alternative approaches like immediate surgical intervention, which is not always necessary unless there are complications or persistent issues, or opting for observation with no treatment, which may lead to prolonged discomfort or complications. Therefore, the combination of cold and warm compresses provides an effective strategy for long-term management of hematomas.