A bruise under the cheekbone, also known as a cheekbone bruise or infraorbital hematoma, is a common injury that can occur due to various reasons. It is characterized by a discoloration of the skin under the cheekbone, which can range in color from red to purple to yellow, depending on the stage of healing. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for a bruise under the cheekbone.
Causes of a Bruise Under the Cheekbone
A bruise under the cheekbone can occur due to several reasons, including:
- Trauma to the face, such as a fall or a blow to the cheekbone
- Surgery, such as facial reconstruction or sinus surgery
- Infections, such as sinusitis or cellulitis
- Allergic reactions, such as an allergic reaction to a medication or a substance
- Medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or blood thinning medications
According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, facial trauma is a common cause of cheekbone bruises, accounting for approximately 25% of all facial injuries.
Symptoms of a Bruise Under the Cheekbone
The symptoms of a bruise under the cheekbone can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:
Pain and swelling under the cheekbone
Discoloration of the skin, which can range in color from red to purple to yellow
Tenderness to the touch
Limited mobility of the face or jaw
Effective Treatments for a Bruise Under the Cheekbone
The treatment for a bruise under the cheekbone typically involves a combination of home remedies and medical interventions. Here are some effective treatments:
Home Remedies
Applying cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling.
Elevating the head and using extra pillows can help reduce swelling.
Using arnica gel or cream can help promote healing and reduce inflammation.
| Treatment | Description |
|---|---|
| Cold Compresses | Apply a cold compress to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day |
| Arnica Gel or Cream | Apply arnica gel or cream to the affected area 2-3 times a day |
Key Points
- A bruise under the cheekbone can occur due to trauma, surgery, infections, allergic reactions, or medical conditions.
- Symptoms include pain and swelling, discoloration of the skin, tenderness to the touch, and limited mobility of the face or jaw.
- Effective treatments include cold compresses, elevating the head, using arnica gel or cream, and seeking medical attention if necessary.
- It is essential to monitor the bruise for signs of infection, such as increased redness or swelling.
- A bruise under the cheekbone can take several days to several weeks to heal, depending on the severity of the injury.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is essential to seek medical attention if:
The bruise is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty moving the face or jaw.
There is increased redness or swelling around the bruise.
There is pus or discharge from the bruise.
There is a fever or chills.
Prevention
While it is not always possible to prevent a bruise under the cheekbone, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of injury:
Wearing protective gear during sports or activities that may result in facial trauma.
Avoiding contact sports or activities that may result in facial trauma.
Using caution when engaging in activities that may result in falls or blows to the face.
What are the common causes of a bruise under the cheekbone?
+The common causes of a bruise under the cheekbone include trauma to the face, surgery, infections, allergic reactions, and medical conditions.
How long does it take for a bruise under the cheekbone to heal?
+The healing time for a bruise under the cheekbone can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but it typically takes several days to several weeks.
When should I seek medical attention for a bruise under the cheekbone?
+You should seek medical attention if the bruise is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty moving the face or jaw, increased redness or swelling, pus or discharge, or fever or chills.