Sublingual Hematoma: Care Instructions
Your Care Instructions
Bleeding and swelling under the tongue is called a sublingual hematoma. It can happen after some kind of tooth surgery or implant. Or it can happen after a mouth or tongue injury.
This problem can be very serious if the swelling increases and blocks your airway. If that happens, you need to be watched and treated in a hospital.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Follow your doctor's instructions to prevent more swelling and reduce pain.
- If your doctor suggests it, put ice or a cold pack under your chin for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
- If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
- Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You have trouble breathing.
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have trouble swallowing.
- You have new or worse symptoms of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Pus draining from the area.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- You do not get better as expected.
Current as of: August 6, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
