Ava Monroe
Black toenails can be unsightly, but they can also be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. A black toenail, or 'subungual hematoma', occurs when there is bleeding or bruising under the toenail. This can be caused by trauma or injury to the toe, such as stubbing it or dropping something heavy on it, or by a fungal infection.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Trauma or injury to the toe, such as stubbing it or dropping something heavy on it |
| Cause | Bleeding or bruising under the toenail |
| Cause | Fungal infections |
| Cause | Other health conditions, such as malignant melanoma |
| Cause | Runner's toe (when the second or third toenails become black) |
| Cause | Toenail being too long and the shoe being either too roomy or too tight |
| Symptoms | Discolouration that ranges from grey to deep black |
| Symptoms | Tenderness or pain when pressure is applied |
| Symptoms | Swelling or warmth around the nail |
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What You'll Learn
- Black toenails are often referred to as a subungual hematoma
- Black toenails are caused by bleeding or bruising under the toenail
- Black toenails can be caused by trauma or injury to the toe
- Black toenails can be caused by fungal infections
- Runner's toe can cause the second or third toenails to turn black
Black toenails are often referred to as a subungual hematoma
Subungual hematomas can also be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, such as malignant melanoma, a form of skin cancer that can spread quickly. If you notice black spots spreading through your toenail, it is important to schedule an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible.
While it may depend on the cause, any black toenail that persists should be checked out by a medical professional. This is because, in rare cases, black toenails can be a sign of other underlying medical conditions.
If the black toenail is caused by trauma, it will usually fade in time. However, it is possible to drain the blood from beneath the nail if needed.
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Black toenails are caused by bleeding or bruising under the toenail
Black toenails are a serious issue that should not be ignored. They are caused by bleeding or bruising under the toenail, which is usually the result of trauma or injury to the toe. This could be from stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, or even wearing shoes that are too tight. The blood trapped beneath the nail causes it to turn black or dark in colour as it dries and clots.
In some cases, black toenails can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer that can spread quickly. If you notice black spots spreading through your toenail, it is important to schedule an appointment with a doctor as soon as possible.
Another possible cause of black toenails is "runner's toe", which is triggered by the nail being too long and the shoe being either too roomy or too snug. In the case of oversized shoes, the foot may slide while running downhill, causing the nail to become entangled at the intersection of the toe cap and the toebox. On the other hand, overly tight shoes can pinch and compress the nail, leading to bleeding between the nail plate and the nail bed.
While it might sound like a goth fashion statement, black toenails are no joke and require prompt attention. Any black toenail that persists should be checked out by a doctor or podiatrist to rule out any serious underlying causes.
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Black toenails can be caused by trauma or injury to the toe
Black toenails, also known as subungual hematoma, are caused by bleeding or bruising underneath the toenail. This is usually the result of trauma or injury to the toe, such as stubbing it or dropping something heavy on it. The blood trapped beneath the nail causes it to turn black or dark in colour as it dries and clots. This can also be caused by fungal infections, or other health conditions.
The presence of a black, purplish, or brownish hue beneath or around a toenail typically stems from toenail trauma. Symptoms may include discoloration that ranges from grey to deep black, tenderness or pain when pressure is applied, and sometimes swelling or warmth around the nail. The severity and appearance can vary based on the cause, but recognizing these signs early can help in determining the appropriate treatment.
One common cause of black toenails is a fungal infection. Although fungal toenails typically cause yellow or white discoloration, they can sometimes develop black spots due to debris buildup under the nail.
In some cases, black toenails may be due to a condition referred to as "runner's toe". This condition can be triggered by the nail being too long and the shoe either being excessively roomy or excessively snug. In cases of oversized shoes, while running downhill, the foot may slide, causing the nail to become entangled at the intersection of the toe cap and the toebox. Conversely, overly tight shoes can pinch and compress the nail, leading to bleeding between the nail plate and the nail bed.
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Black toenails can be caused by fungal infections
Fungal infections, such as foot fungi or athlete’s foot, can also cause black toenails. Typically, a fungal infection causes white or yellowish discolouration. However, debris can build up near the infection, causing the nail to appear black.
Fungal infections are usually treatable at home when caught early. Over-the-counter ointments, creams, and polishes are usually effective. Severe cases may require a prescription antifungal treatment.
If you notice any black spots that might be spreading throughout the nail, or if they don’t go away despite your toenail growing out, it’s important to see your doctor. This is because, in rare cases, a black toenail may be due to melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer. Melanoma causes the skin to develop one or more patches of dark, irregular-looking skin. In some cases, the patch of darkening skin grows beneath the nail bed.
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Runner's toe can cause the second or third toenails to turn black
Black toenails, also known as subungual hematoma, occur when there is bleeding or bruising underneath the toenail. This is usually caused by trauma or injury to the toe, such as stubbing it or dropping something heavy on it. The blood trapped beneath the nail causes it to turn black or dark in colour as it dries and clots.
Runners toe is a condition that can cause the second or third toenails to turn black. It is often triggered by the nail being too long, combined with shoes that are either too big or too tight. When running downhill in oversized shoes, the foot may slide, causing the nail to become entangled at the intersection of the toe cap and the toebox. On the other hand, overly tight shoes can pinch and compress the nail, leading to bleeding between the nail plate and the nail bed.
Runners toe can be prevented by ensuring that toenails are kept trimmed and that shoes fit properly. It is important to choose shoes that provide adequate room for the toes to move freely, while also providing enough support to prevent the foot from sliding forward.
In addition to trauma and runner's toe, black toenails can also be caused by fungal infections or other health conditions. Fungal infections typically cause yellow or white discoloration, but can sometimes lead to black spots due to debris buildup under the nail. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you are experiencing black toenails, as they can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
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Frequently asked questions
It means there is bleeding or bruising under the toenail. This is often referred to as a "subungual hematoma".
Black toenails can be caused by trauma or injury to the toe, such as stubbing it or dropping something heavy on it. They can also be caused by fungal infections, or other health conditions.
Symptoms include discolouration that ranges from grey to deep black, tenderness or pain when pressure is applied, and sometimes swelling or warmth around the nail.
Recognising the signs early can help determine the appropriate treatment. You should contact a healthcare provider to discuss treatment options and potential complications.
