What does a "hematoma" refer to?

A "hematoma" refers to the swelling of blood in an organ or tissue. This condition occurs when blood vessels are damaged and blood leaks out into the surrounding tissues, creating a localized collection of clotted or pooled blood. The resulting area may become swollen, discolored, and painful, depending on the size and location of the hematoma.

Understanding hematomas is crucial because they can occur as a result of trauma or injury, and recognizing their appearance can aid in diagnosing and managing various medical conditions. It's important to differentiate this from other medical conditions such as an accumulation of pus, which indicates an infection, or fluid build-up in the lungs, which could relate to respiratory issues. Additionally, irritation of the digestive tract is separate from hematomas, as this refers to a different type of tissue response often associated with inflammation or infection rather than bleeding.