Subcutaneous Bleeding After Finger Injury: Is It Normal?

Finger puncture with subcutaneous bleeding?

Two weeks ago, I was pricked in the finger by a nail.
A few hours later, the surface of the wound healed, and there was no swelling, but there is still a lump of blood underneath the skin.
Initially, it was red, but by the next day, it turned a reddish-brown color and has remained unchanged for two weeks.
Is this normal? Will it be absorbed on its own?

Hey, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/24

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

It is possible that absorption has not yet been complete, and there may also be inflammation internally.
It is recommended to consult a dermatologist nearby for an examination.

Reply Date: 2024/04/24

More Info

Subcutaneous bleeding, or bruising, following a finger injury can be a common occurrence, especially when the injury involves a puncture or a deep cut. In your case, it sounds like you experienced a puncture wound from a fingernail, which can lead to bleeding beneath the skin. The initial redness you observed is typical of fresh blood pooling under the skin, while the subsequent change to a reddish-brown color indicates that the blood is beginning to break down and the body is starting to heal.

In general, subcutaneous bleeding can take time to resolve. The body has a natural process for reabsorbing the blood that has pooled under the skin. This process can vary in duration depending on several factors, including the size of the bruise, the individual's overall health, and the body's healing response. In many cases, bruises will change color as they heal, transitioning from red to purple, then to greenish-yellow, before finally fading away.

Given that your bruise has persisted for two weeks without significant change, it is advisable to monitor it closely. If the bruise remains the same size, does not show signs of improvement, or if you experience increased pain, swelling, or any signs of infection (such as warmth, redness, or discharge), it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They may want to assess for any underlying issues, such as a hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels) or other complications that could be affecting your healing process.

In terms of treatment, there are a few things you can do to support healing. Resting the affected finger and avoiding activities that could exacerbate the injury is important. Applying ice to the area during the first 48 hours can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. After that period, gentle warmth may promote blood flow and healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can also help manage discomfort.

If you have any concerns about the injury or if the bruise does not begin to resolve, it is always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, to ensure there are no complications that require intervention.

In summary, while subcutaneous bleeding after a finger injury can be normal and often resolves on its own, persistent symptoms warrant further evaluation. Your body is equipped to handle minor injuries, but monitoring your symptoms and seeking medical advice when necessary is key to ensuring proper healing.

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