Hematoma: Treatment, Diet and Home Remedies

Foods to be taken

• Vitamin K protects the body against bruising. Include vitamin K rich foods like spinach, strawberries, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, wheat germ, eggs
  
• Foods rich in bioflavonoids include oranges, lemon, grapefruits, strawberries, papaya, apricots
  
• Vitamin C deficiency can increase bruising, so add fruits and vegetables that are high in this nutrient can greatly reduce bruising. Vitamin C rich foods include peppers, guavas, dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, peas etc
  

Foods to be avoided

Certain foods contain aspirin-like properties that can "thin" your blood and increase the appearance of a contusion or hematoma. These foods include fruits like apples, peaches, plums, prunes, cherries, raisins, currants, melons, nectarines. Vegetables like bell and green peppers, potatoes, cucumbers, sweet potatoes can also thin your blood and increase bruising. Avoid wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, shellfish and spicy foods as well.

Follow RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) method

• Rest the affected area
  
• Ice reduces swelling and pain; apply a bag of ice covered with a thin towel to the affected area. 
  
• Compression (wrap the area in an elastic bandage or wear a compression stocking) and elevation (keep the affected area elevated above the heart level) also reduce the swelling.
  
• Gently massage or rub the affected area to relieve pain and encourage blood flow. Do not massage the bruised area if it causes pain.
  
• Do not smoke or use other tobacco products as smoking slows healing because it decreases blood supply and delays tissue repair.