Ava Monroe
If you notice blood pooling under your toenail, you may have what is called a subungual hematoma, which is usually caused by a crushing or stubbing injury. Over time, the blood may turn dark, and the pressure may cause your nail to come off. To prevent this, you can try draining the hematoma, a procedure also known as trephination, which involves making a small hole in the nail to allow the blood to flow out. While this procedure can be performed quickly and relatively painlessly by a doctor, it is important to seek medical attention within the first 48 hours, as the blood begins to clot after this time, making drainage difficult.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Medical Term | Subungual Hematoma |
| Cause | Bleeding under the toenail caused by an injury, such as stubbing your toe, or wearing tight shoes |
| Symptoms | Darkened discoloration, black spots, throbbing pain, swelling, redness, warmth, red streaks, pus |
| Treatment | Drainage of excess fluid, decompression, trephination, removal of the nail, soaking in warm water with Epsom salts, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories |
| Home Remedy | Using a heated paper clip to melt through the nail, allowing blood to drain |
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What You'll Learn
See a doctor to rule out other causes if there is no injury
If you notice blood under your toenail and haven't experienced any injury, it's important to see a doctor to rule out other possible causes. This is because blood accumulating under a toenail, known as a subungual hematoma, typically occurs due to trauma or injury to the nail.
When there is no apparent injury, other potential causes may need to be considered. One such cause could be melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Although rare under the nail, melanoma can cause a dark mark to form and warrants medical attention.
Additionally, certain infections can lead to discolouration of the nail bed. Signs of infection include pus, redness, or heat around the nail, or a red streak extending from the affected area. An X-ray may be required to assess any potential bone fractures or underlying injuries.
Furthermore, repetitive pressure or stress on the toenail over time, such as from wearing tight shoes or running, can also result in subungual hematomas without a single traumatic event. Your doctor can help determine if this is the case and provide guidance on relieving pressure and preventing further issues.
While small subungual hematomas often don't require medical treatment and can be managed with home care, it's always best to seek professional advice to ensure proper healing and rule out any underlying causes when there is no obvious injury.
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Drain blood by melting a hole with a red-hot paper clip
To drain blood from under your toenail using a red-hot paper clip, you must first straighten out the paper clip. Then, heat one tip of the paper clip in a flame until it is red-hot. It is important that the paper clip is hot enough to melt through the nail, but do not touch the hot paper clip to your skin. There are no nerves in the nail, so this should not be painful, but there are nerves in the skin underneath.
Once the paper clip is hot enough, gently place it on your toenail and let it melt through. Do not push down or apply pressure—go slowly and let the hot paper clip do the work. If your nail is thick, it may take several attempts. As soon as the hole is complete, the blood will be able to escape and you should feel relief from the pressure and pain.
You may need to reheat the paper clip and repeat the procedure several times, as the pain and pressure can build up again in a few days. Always take care when working with hot objects and be mindful of the hot paper clip, even after it has been removed from the flame as it will take some time to cool down.
After performing this procedure, it is important to practice good hygiene and care for the area. Soak your toe in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes, 3 times a day for 2 to 3 days. A clear or slightly bloody fluid may continue to drain from the nail during this time.
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Use ice and elevation to reduce swelling
To reduce swelling, it is recommended to use ice and elevate the affected area. Wrap some ice in a towel and apply it to the injured toe. You can also use a cool pack or cold compress. Keep your foot elevated above your heart level to help reduce swelling. This can be done by lying down and propping your foot up on a pillow or cushion.
It is important to rest and avoid any activities that may cause further injury to your toe. If you need to walk, try to keep weight off the injured toe as much as possible. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers to help with any discomfort.
For more severe injuries, it is important to seek medical attention. A doctor may recommend a procedure to drain the pooled blood from under the nail, known as trephination or decompression. After such a procedure, your doctor will bandage your toe and may recommend keeping it elevated and using cold compresses during the first 12 hours.
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Take anti-inflammatory medication for minor pain
If you are experiencing minor pain due to a subungual hematoma, or bleeding under the toenail, you may take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to help manage the pain. This can be an effective way to reduce discomfort and inflammation caused by the buildup of blood under the toenail.
It is important to note that while anti-inflammatory medication can help with minor pain, if you are experiencing more severe pain or if the hematoma is causing other symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention. Subungual hematomas can be painful and may cause discoloration and increased pressure under the nail. In some cases, the blood may need to be drained by a healthcare professional to relieve the pressure and prevent the nail from falling off.
If you choose to take anti-inflammatory medication, be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the package or as directed by your healthcare provider. It is generally recommended to take the medication with food to reduce the risk of stomach irritation. Additionally, it is important to stay within the recommended dosage to avoid any potential side effects.
It is worth mentioning that subungual hematomas are typically caused by traumatic injuries, such as stubbing your toe or wearing tight shoes. To prevent further injury and reduce the risk of infection, it is important to keep the affected area clean and dry while it heals. You may also need to elevate your foot and apply a cold compress to help manage the pain and swelling.
While taking anti-inflammatory medication can help manage minor pain associated with a subungual hematoma, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if the condition persists or worsens. They can provide guidance on the most appropriate treatment options and ensure that your injury heals properly.
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Soak the toe in warm water and Epsom salts
Soaking the affected toe in warm water and Epsom salts is a common self-treatment for ingrown toenails. It is also used to treat toenail fungal infections. The warm water and salt mixture helps to reduce discomfort, soften the toenail, and relieve pressure.
To prepare the soak, fill a bathtub, basin, or large bucket with warm water to a depth that will cover your feet. Add 3 tablespoons (51-51.2 grams) of Epsom salt to 3 quarts (2.8 litres) of warm water. You can also add a few drops of diluted lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus essential oil to the foot bath for an aromatherapy boost.
Soak your foot and affected toe in the solution for about 15 minutes. Repeat this routine anytime the nail feels painful as it's growing out. You can also try this routine three to five times daily, flexing your toes repeatedly while in the bath to help with blood circulation.
After soaking, dry your foot thoroughly with a clean towel and moisturize your feet to prevent cracked skin and irritation.
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