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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Hemorrhage and Hematoma?

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The main difference between a hemorrhage and a hematoma lies in the state of the blood and the location of the bleeding.

  • Hemorrhage: This refers to active, ongoing bleeding, either internal (inside the body) or external (visible outside the body). Hemorrhages can occur due to various reasons, such as injury, trauma, or blood vessel defects. In some cases, a hematoma can lead to hemorrhaging.
  • Hematoma: This is a collection of blood that has leaked out of a blood vessel and pooled in an enclosed area, either under the skin or deep inside the body. Hematomas are typically caused by an injury to the wall of a blood vessel, prompting blood to seep out of the blood vessel into the surrounding tissues. Most hematomas are not dangerous, but some can indicate a more serious medical problem.

In summary, a hemorrhage is characterized by active, ongoing bleeding, while a hematoma is a pool of blood that has already clotted and is encased within the tissues.

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  • What is the Difference Between Hemorrhage and Hematoma?
  • Comparative Table: Hemorrhage vs Hematoma

    • Comparative Table: Hemorrhage vs Hematoma

    Here is a table comparing the differences between a hemorrhage and a hematoma:

    Feature Hemorrhage Hematoma
    Definition Bleeding that occurs either inside or outside the body. A pool of blood that collects between skin layers or within tissue planes after an injury.
    Causes Rupture of a blood vessel, can be caused by trauma or other factors. Damage to blood vessels, often due to injury or trauma.
    Types Arterial, venous, and capillary. Can be classified by location, such as subungual hematoma (under the nail) or ear hematoma (between the cartilage of the ear and the skin).
    Symptoms Varies depending on the location and severity of the bleeding. Pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes severe headache or excessive sleepiness.
    Treatment Depends on the severity and location of the bleeding. Depends on the size and location of the hematoma, may include draining or surgical intervention.
    Complications Internal bleeding can lead to shock, organ damage, or even death. Hematomas can sometimes become infected or lead to more severe complications.

    Remember that both conditions can result from traumatic injuries and may require medical attention. However, the main difference between the two is that a hemorrhage refers to ongoing bleeding, while a hematoma refers to blood that has already clotted and pooled within tissue planes or between skin layers.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.