Concern About a Possible Hematoma After a Fall
I’m a 30-year-old male, standing 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing around 200 pounds. Generally, I’m in good shape, aside from a minor weight gain recently. I had an unfortunate incident where I tumbled down the stairs after slipping on some wet boots—a situation that has raised some concerns for my girlfriend. Since I’m not very knowledgeable about injuries, I’m wondering if this warrants seeing a doctor or if I should simply let time heal it. While shoveling snow in my brand new boots, I went upstairs briefly, and upon descending, I lost my footing on the very first step due to the wet surface. It was a nasty fall, and I ended up sliding down a steep staircase of twelve steps. Though I felt sore afterwards, I thought I’d be okay. Accidents happen; I was clearly careless. However, as days have passed, the bruise has grown more pronounced, and I typically don’t bruise easily. The area in question now has a persistent dull ache and hurts sharply if it comes into contact with anything. The bruise is located on my upper thigh and lower glute and is roughly the size of a large lemon. My girlfriend is anxious about it, and I’d appreciate any guidance.
Answers (1)
12/16/2025, 11:30:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your fall; it’s understandable to be concerned, especially given the bruising and pain. Here’s a focused overview of your situation, some insights about hematomas, and actionable steps to consider.
Main Points:
- You may have a hematoma, but many resolve on their own.
- Monitor symptoms closely, especially for any changes.
- Prioritize rest, ice, compression, and elevation to manage discomfort.
Explanation:
A hematoma is a collection of blood outside of blood vessels, often resulting from trauma like your fall. It’s common for them to be painful, swell, and change colors as they heal. Given the size of your bruise (about the size of a lemon) and the sharp pain with contact, it's wise to keep an eye on it. Persistent and worsening symptoms could suggest a more serious injury.
Next Steps:
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Rest and Protect the Area: Avoid putting pressure on the bruise or engaging in any activities that could exacerbate the pain.
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Ice the Bruise: Apply ice (wrapped in a cloth) for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed, particularly in the first 48 hours. This can help reduce swelling and pain.
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Compression: If it’s comfortable, wrap the area with an elastic bandage to help minimize swelling, but make sure it isn’t too tight.
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Elevation: Try to keep your leg elevated when possible to reduce swelling.
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Monitor Symptoms: Watch for any significant changes, such as increased pain, swelling, or discoloration, as well as signs of infection (like warmth, redness, or drainage). If the pain worsens or if you develop new symptoms, reconsider seeking medical attention.
While many bruises and hematomas heal with proper care, listening to your body is key. If you feel unsure or if your concerns persist, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional medical advice. Your well-being is important, and it’s good that you’re being proactive about it. Let me know if you need further information!
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