Hematomas are commonly referred to as bruises, which occur when blood vessels break under the skin causing the discoloration we see. Other synonyms for hematomas include contusions and ecchymoses. Contusions often occur from blunt force trauma or injury, and ecchymoses can be associated with medical conditions such as thrombocytopenia or blood clotting disorders. Blood blisters are another term used to describe hematomas that have formed as a blister on the skin's surface. While hematomas and their synonymous terms may look painful and unsightly, they are normal parts of the body's natural healing process following trauma or injury.