Sophia Delgado
Pressure under a toenail can be caused by repetitive pressure over time, such as running in shoes that are too tight, or a severe blow to the toe. This can cause bleeding under the nail, known as a subungual hematoma, which can be extremely painful. The blood collects between the nail and the nail bed, causing pressure and pain. If the injury is severe, it can lead to permanent nail changes or even a bacterial infection.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Repetitive pressure over time, such as running in tight shoes |
| Effect | Injury to blood vessels in the nail bed, causing them to leak blood which builds up under the nail plate |
| Symptoms | Pain, discoloration, nail loosening or falling off |
| Treatment | Decompression or trephination to allow blood to drain and relieve pressure and pain |
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Subungual hematoma
Pressure under a toenail is known as a subungual hematoma, which is bleeding and bruising under the nail. This can occur from repetitive pressure over time, such as running in shoes that are too tight. The pressure injures the blood vessels in the nail bed, causing them to leak blood which builds up underneath the nail plate. This can lead to pain and discolouration.
Decompression, also called trephination, can be performed by a doctor to relieve pressure and pain. This involves the doctor numbing the affected toe with a nerve block and using a heated wire (electrocautery device) or carbon laser to burn a hole or holes. This is a quick and painless procedure.
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Repetitive pressure
Subungual hematoma is the medical term for bleeding and bruising under the nail. This can be caused by repetitive pressure over time, such as running in shoes that are too tight and press on the toenail. The pressure injures the blood vessels in the nail bed, causing them to leak blood which builds up underneath the nail plate. This can be extremely painful.
If you are experiencing pain under your toenail, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor may perform decompression, also called trephination, to relieve the pressure and pain. This involves numbing the affected toe with a nerve block and using a heated wire or carbon laser to burn a hole in the nail, allowing the blood to drain. This is a quick and painless procedure.
If left untreated, a subungual hematoma can lead to permanent nail changes. The toenail may loosen or fall off, and there is a risk of developing a bacterial infection in the area of the injury. Complications are more likely if the injury is severe, particularly if it damages the bone.
To prevent subungual hematoma from repetitive pressure, it is important to wear properly fitting shoes that do not press on the toenails. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort while running or engaging in other physical activities, adjust your footwear or seek advice from a healthcare professional.
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Decompression
Pressure under a toenail is usually caused by bleeding under the nail plate, known as a subungual hematoma. This can be caused by repetitive pressure over time, such as wearing shoes that are too tight, or by a severe blow to the toe. The blood collects between the nail and the nail bed, causing pain and discolouration. In some cases, the toenail may loosen or fall off.
In summary, pressure under a toenail is often caused by a subungual hematoma, which can be treated through decompression. This procedure involves creating a hole in the nail to drain the blood and relieve pressure and pain. It is important to seek medical advice if you are experiencing any symptoms related to a subungual hematoma to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Cautery
Pressure under a toenail is caused by bleeding under the nail, which can be caused by an injury or chronic rubbing within shoes. This is called a subungual hematoma.
If the area is large or painful, medical treatment may be needed to relieve the pressure and prevent permanent nail changes. One such treatment is cautery.
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Bacterial infection
Pressure under a toenail can be caused by repetitive pressure over time, such as running in shoes that are too tight. This can injure the blood vessels in the nail bed, causing them to leak blood which builds up underneath the nail plate. This is known as a subungual hematoma and can be extremely painful.
Subungual hematomas rarely lead to complications, but it is possible to develop a bacterial infection in the area of the injury. This is more likely if the injury is severe, particularly if it has damaged the bone. A bacterial infection can be diagnosed by a doctor closely examining the toe.
If you have a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat it. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve. In some cases, your doctor may recommend draining the infection. This involves making a small incision in the nail to allow the pus to drain out.
To prevent a bacterial infection from developing under your toenail, it is important to take care of your feet and nails. This includes wearing properly fitting shoes, trimming your nails regularly, and keeping your feet clean and dry. If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus, seek medical attention promptly.
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Frequently asked questions
It could be a subungual hematoma, which is bleeding under the nail. This can be caused by repetitive pressure over time, such as running in shoes that are too tight.
You should seek medical attention. Your doctor may perform decompression, which allows the underlying blood to drain, relieving pressure and pain to the area.
Symptoms include pain and discolouration. If the hematoma covers a large area of the toe, it may be painful and medical treatment may be needed to relieve pressure and help prevent permanent nail changes.
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