Bruise or Bump (No Open Wound) - Adults

Contusion

Infants (Ages 0–2)Children (Ages 3–17)Adults (Ages 18–74)Seniors (Ages 75 and Older)

What it is

A bruise or bump can happen after a hit or fall. There is no open wound, but the tissue underneath is injured. If the injury is minor, a small bruise may appear. If the injury is more severe, there may be a larger bump or bleeding under the skin. For a few days, there may be pain, swelling, redness, or warmth. These symptoms usually start to improve after 3 days.

What you can do at home

What to do

Keep the injured area elevated, unless it is deformed (possible fracture) or unless the injury involves the neck area.
To reduce pain, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). When in doubt, ask a pharmacist for advice.

Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.

Apply a cold compress

Cold helps reduce swelling and pain.
During the first 48 hours (2 days) after the injury, apply a cold compress for 15 to 20 minutes every 2 hours.
Use a cold compress, ice pack, bag of frozen vegetables, or gel ice pack.
Always place a cloth between the skin and the cold source to protect the skin.
Do not apply a cold compress if you have a problem with circulation.

Apply heat

Starting on the third day, apply heat for 20 to 30 minutes, 4 times a day.
Use a damp towel warmed in the microwave, a warm compress, or a hot water bottle.
Always place a cloth between the skin and the heat source to protect the skin.
Do not apply heat if you have problems with circulations or a blood clotting disorder.
Do not apply heat when using a pain-relief (analgesic) gel.

What to avoid

If the injured area is deformed (possible fracture), do not move it.
If the injury involves the neck area, do not move the neck or the injured person.
Do not massage the injured area.

When to seek medical attention

Difficulty moving or walking

Hematoma or large bruise (significant collection of blood) on the ear

Signs of infection after 72 hours (3 days), even after following the recommended care:

Increasing pain
Skin around the injury becoming red or swollen, or pus (yellow-green fluid) appearing

️When to go to the hospital right away

Severe pain and deformity of the injured area

Increasing pain with numbness, weakness, or loss of sensation in the injured area

Fever, chills, or shaking

Very fast heartbeat or palpitations

Difficulty breathing

Pale, clammy, or cold skin

Signs of infection that are getting worse quickly:

the skin around the injury becomes red, swollen, or very painful

Injury related to violence

Need help?

Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.  

Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.  

Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.  

If you do not have a family doctor, go to https://gap.soinsvirtuels.gouv.qc.ca/en or call 811, Option 3.   