Isla Bennett
Bruised nails, also known as subungual hematomas, are usually the result of accidents such as stubbing your toe or finger. The blood trapped under the nail can cause severe, throbbing pain and pressure on your finger or toe nerves. This pain can take weeks to get better unless a doctor drains the blood through a procedure called trephination. Without this procedure, it can take several months for the nail to grow out and return to its normal colour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is a nail bruise called? | Subungual hematoma |
| What causes a nail bruise? | Sudden trauma to the nail, such as hitting your fingertip with a hammer or dropping a brick on your toe. |
| What happens when you get a nail bruise? | Blood pools under the nail plate, causing discoloration and severe throbbing pain. |
| How to treat a nail bruise? | Doctors recommend draining subungual hematomas when they cause pain or make up 25%-50% or more of the nail. This procedure is called trephination and can be performed at a doctor's office or urgent care center. |
| How long does it take for a nail bruise to grow out? | It may take anywhere from two to several months for a fingernail to grow out. Toenails may take anywhere from four to eighteen months to grow back. |
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What You'll Learn
Bruised nails can take months to heal
A bruised nail, also known as a subungual haematoma, is usually the result of an accident or trauma, such as stubbing your toe or finger, or slamming your finger in a door. It is important to seek medical care within two days of the injury to avoid the blood clotting, which can cause bulk under the nail and lead to weeks of unnecessary pain.
Trephination is a simple, painless procedure that can be performed by a healthcare professional to relieve the pressure and pain by draining the blood by making a small hole in the nail. However, this procedure should not be attempted at home as it may cause infection if not done properly.
After a trephination procedure or if the nail has fallen off, it may take between 4 to 6 months for a fingernail to fully grow back, and 12 to 18 months for a toenail. Nails that grow back may have ridges, grooves, or other abnormalities, and these changes may be permanent.
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Trephination can relieve pain and pressure
A bruised nail is usually the result of an accident, such as stubbing your toe or finger. The pain from a bruised nail is caused by blood trapped under the nail, which puts pressure on the nerves of the affected finger or toe. This pressure can be excruciating, causing difficulty in performing daily activities. The pain can last for weeks, and the nail can take months to return to normal. In some cases, the nail may fall off.
Trephination is a procedure that can be used to relieve the pain and pressure caused by a bruised nail. It involves drilling a small hole into the nail to drain the trapped blood. This procedure is quick, simple, and relatively painless and can provide immediate relief from pain and pressure. Trephination is also known as trepanation or trephining and has been used for thousands of years to treat various ailments. While it was once believed to release evil spirits, modern medicine has adapted trephination for various surgical interventions.
Trephination can be performed by a physician or surgeon to relieve the pain associated with a subungual hematoma (blood under the nail). It is recommended when the hematoma causes pain or makes up 50% or more of the nail. If there is a fracture, drainage is recommended if the hematoma covers 25% or more of the nail. Trephination should be performed within the first 48 hours after the injury, as the blood will begin to clot after this time, making drainage difficult.
The procedure typically begins with cleaning the affected area with a solution such as alcohol or iodine. The doctor may then administer pain relief or anesthetic, although this is not always necessary. Finally, gentle pressure is applied to the nail with a heated needle or cautery device to drain the blood. After the procedure, it is important to keep the nail clean and dry.
In addition to its use in treating nail injuries, trephination has been adapted for various surgical interventions. In modern medicine, trephination is used in corneal transplant surgery and abdominal surgery. It has also been an important therapy for conditions such as epilepsy and mental illness. Trephination was once a common procedure in managing head trauma, although it is no longer viewed as therapeutic in itself. It is still used for exploratory diagnosis, relieving intracerebral pressure, and gaining access to the brain for certain procedures.
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Bruises may cause nails to fall off
Bruises under the nail, known as subungual haematomas, are usually the result of a crushing or stubbing injury. This causes blood to pool below the nail plate, which may look black-and-blue like a bruise. The blood trapped under the nail can cause severe, throbbing pain and put pressure on the nerves of the finger or toe.
If the haematoma is large and painful, it is important to seek medical treatment. Doctors can drain the blood through a simple procedure called trephination, which relieves the pressure and pain. Trephination should be performed within 48 hours of the injury, before the blood clots, which can cause bulk under the nail and lead to weeks of unnecessary pain.
If left untreated, the pressure of a subungual haematoma can cause the nail to come off completely, either immediately or weeks later. This is known as avulsion. In the case of avulsion, a new nail will usually grow back within 4 to 6 months for fingernails and 12 to 18 months for toenails. However, the nail may be malformed or cracked, and in some cases, it may fail to regrow.
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Subungual haematoma is a common issue
Subungual haematoma, or blood trapped under a nail, is a common issue that occurs due to a crushing or stubbing injury. It can be extremely painful and cause throbbing as blood collects under the nail, putting pressure on the nerves of the finger or toe. This is known as subungual haematoma or subungual haemorrhage. The blood trapped under the nail can turn dark over time, and the pressure may cause the nail to come off.
Subungual haematoma is usually treated with trephination, a simple, relatively painless procedure that involves draining the blood by making small holes in the nail. This procedure should be performed by a medical professional within 48 hours of the injury, before the blood clots and causes a bulk under the nail, which could lead to weeks of unnecessary pain. Trephination can be performed by a doctor using a heated wire, a carbon laser, or a needle to burn or make a hole in the nail.
In some cases, a surgical opinion may be required, such as when there is an underlying fracture or the need for a biopsy to rule out melanoma. Small subungual haematomas may not require medical treatment and can be managed with ice, elevation, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. However, it is always recommended to seek medical advice to ensure proper care and avoid potential complications.
The time it takes for a subungual haematoma to heal and grow out can vary. Without trephination, it may take several months for the haematoma to reabsorb or grow out. If the nail falls off due to the pressure of the haematoma, it may take 4 to 6 months for a fingernail and 12 to 18 months for a toenail to fully grow back. Nails that grow back may have ridges or other abnormalities.
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Seek medical attention for nail bruises
A bruised nail, or subungual hematoma, is usually the result of an injury. While it may seem insignificant, a nail bruise can be extremely painful and requires medical attention for several reasons. The pain from a bruised nail is due to the pressure exerted on the nerves of the finger or toe. This nerve pain can take weeks to subside unless a healthcare provider intervenes.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Nail Bruises
- Intense pain or pain that worsens over time: If you experience intense pain or pain that gets worse, it is important to seek medical care. A simple procedure called trephination can be performed to drain the hematoma and relieve the pressure and pain.
- Deep cut and/or continuous bleeding: If you have a deep cut or bleeding that won't stop, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Your doctor may need to remove your nail plate to repair the underlying tissues properly.
- Suspected broken bone: If you believe a bone may be broken, don't delay seeking medical care. X-rays can help determine if there is a fracture or other injury. Untreated fractures can heal incorrectly, leading to long-term pain and interference with the natural function of your finger or toe.
- Signs of infection: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, or fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
- Deformed finger or toe: If your finger or toe appears deformed after the injury, don't hesitate to seek medical care. A doctor will examine your nail, and an X-ray may be necessary to assess the extent of the injury.
- Significant nail discolouration: If more than a quarter of your nail is discoloured, it is advisable to seek medical attention. The discolouration could indicate a hematoma or other underlying issues.
Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution. If you have any concerns or uncertainties about your nail bruise, don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance and treatment to ensure your nail heals properly and alleviate any discomfort you may be experiencing.
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Frequently asked questions
It can take several months for a nail bruise to grow out.
A nail bruise is when blood pools under the nail plate, causing discolouration. This is called a subungual haematoma.
A nail bruise is usually caused by a crushing or stubbing injury, such as hitting your finger with a hammer or dropping something on your toe.
If you have a nail bruise, you should seek medical attention. Doctors can drain the blood with a simple, painless procedure called trephination, which relieves pain and pressure.
If left untreated, the blood under your nail will clot, causing a bulk that could lead to weeks of unnecessary pain.
