Caleb Foster
A dead fingernail is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, fungal infections, skin conditions, and certain medications. When a fingernail dies, it often separates from the nail bed, resulting in onycholysis. In this condition, the nail plate (hard part of the nail) pulls away from the nail bed (skin underneath). While onycholysis usually isn't painful, it can be unsightly and cause cosmetic concerns. Treatment for a dead fingernail depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, home treatment may be sufficient, while other times, medical attention may be required.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Blunt force, e.g. smashing a finger in a door, hitting with a hammer, or cutting with a knife |
| Symptoms | Bleeding, bruising, discolouration, cracking, nail falling off, pain, irritation |
| Treatment | First aid, applying a bandage, draining blood, trimming the nail, removing the nail, stitches, antibiotics, keeping the area dry |
| Healing Time | 7-10 days for the nail bed to heal, 4-6 months for a new fingernail to grow, 12-18 months for a toenail |
| Prevention | Wear properly sized shoes, keep fingernails trimmed, avoid nail biting and cuticle biting |
| Complications | Loss of blood flow, nerve damage, infection, foot ulcers |
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What You'll Learn
See a doctor if there is a lot of blood under the nail bed
If you notice a lot of blood under your nail bed, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. This condition is called a subungual hematoma, which is a blood blister under the nail. It is often caused by a blow to the nail or by closing your finger in a door or drawer, and can result in a large amount of blood accumulating under the nail.
A physician should evaluate the nail and the underlying injury. In some cases, the nail may need to be removed to allow for the examination and treatment of the affected area. The doctor may decide to drain the accumulated blood by drilling a small hole through the nail to relieve pressure and reduce the risk of the nail falling off. This procedure can be performed in a sterile medical environment by a qualified healthcare professional.
If the injury includes the base of the nail, there may be some permanent cosmetic changes. In such cases, X-rays may be required to assess the extent of the trauma. The doctor may also recommend stitches to repair any deep tears or fractures. It is important to follow the advice of your doctor to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of infection.
It is important to note that any unusual colors or signs of infection around the nail should also prompt a visit to the doctor. Changes in nail color, such as a greenish-black appearance, can indicate a bacterial infection. Additionally, redness, swelling, and persistent pain are all signs of infection that require medical attention. Seeking timely medical care for a subungual hematoma and any subsequent infections is crucial to ensure proper healing and prevent further complications.
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Cover the nail with tape or an adhesive bandage
If your fingernail is injured, it is important to take care of any immediate first aid needs. If your nail lifts completely off the nail bed, it is recommended to cover the nail and hold it in place with a bandage. Nails will not reattach to the nail bed after they have separated from it, but a new nail should slowly regrow.
One option is to use a self-adhesive bandage wrap, which can be wrapped around the injured finger to cover and protect the nail. These bandages are waterproof, breathable, and provide light compression to relieve swelling and promote healing. They are easy to apply and do not require adhesive, pins, or clips. They can be easily torn by hand and wrapped around the affected area. It is important to remember to wrap the tape a little loosely and not too tight.
Another option is to use a product such as SuperNail Bandage Instant Nail Repair, which provides a medical adhesive to protect the nail and nail bed from further damage. These products come in strips that can be cut to fit the size of your nail and can be used with a polish base coat to help them last longer.
While these solutions can help protect and stabilize the nail, it is important to seek medical advice if there are any concerns or if the injury is severe.
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Signs of infection: redness, swelling, and pus
If you have a dead fingernail, it is important to be vigilant for any signs of infection. One of the most common nail infections is called paronychia, which is caused by bacteria entering the skin through cuts in the cuticle or the nail fold (the skin around the nail). Paronychia usually resolves with antibiotics, but it is important to watch out for any signs of infection, including redness, swelling, and pus.
Redness is one of the hallmark signs of infection. If the skin around your nail appears red and feels warm to the touch, it could indicate that you have an infection. This redness is often accompanied by swelling and tenderness around the nail. The swelling may be mild at first but can progress if left untreated.
Swelling can cause further discomfort and may be a sign that the infection is spreading. As the infection progresses, you may also notice the formation of pus. Pus is a thick, infectious fluid that builds up around the wound. It is often white to yellow in colour and can be drained by a healthcare provider.
If you notice any of these signs of infection, it is important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection and may also drain any pus that has accumulated. To prevent further infection, keep the area clean and replace the bandage as needed. Additionally, avoid biting or chewing on your nails, hangnails, or cuticles, as this can introduce more bacteria and delay healing.
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Soak the finger in a salt solution
Soaking the finger in a salt solution is a recommended home remedy for treating a dead fingernail. This is an effective way to treat a simple finger infection. It is important to note that this method is suitable only for minor infections and that medical intervention may be required for more persistent or severe cases.
To create the salt solution, fill a bowl with warm tap water. The water should be warm, but not hot enough to cause discomfort or pain. Add a few tablespoons of salt to the water and stir until dissolved. Alternatively, you can use Epsom salt, which has additional soothing and pain-relieving properties.
Once the salt has dissolved, soak the affected finger in the solution for approximately 15 minutes. Repeat this process two to four times a day for several days. If the skin around your nail is broken, you can apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibacterial ointment to the affected area before soaking. This will help keep the wound moisturized and protected.
After soaking, dry the finger thoroughly with a clean towel. If desired, you can apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the affected area and cover it with a non-stick bandage. Ensure you keep your hands clean and avoid biting or sucking your fingers to prevent possible reinfection.
If you do not notice any improvement after a few days of soaking, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional for further advice and treatment options.
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Keep the nail bed dry and clean
Keeping the nail bed dry and clean is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. After a nail separates from its nail bed, it will not reattach, and a new nail will have to grow back in its place.
To keep the nail bed dry, avoid getting the area wet when washing your hands or showering. You can cover the nail with tape or an adhesive bandage to protect the nail bed and keep it dry. If the nail is partly attached, use scissors to carefully remove the detached part of the nail. Soak your finger or toe in cold water for 20 minutes, then trim the nail if necessary.
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to the nail bed and cover it with a non-stick bandage. It is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. Soak your hand or foot in a solution of warm water and salt two to three times a day for the next three days. Reapply petroleum jelly and cover with a fresh adhesive bandage.
Continue this process until the nail bed is firm and the nail has grown back. It typically takes about six to nine months for fingernails to grow back completely and 12 to 18 months for toenails. During this time, it is crucial to keep the nail bed clean and free from infection. If you notice any signs of infection, such as pus, redness, swelling, or persistent pain, seek medical attention.
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Frequently asked questions
If your fingernail is injured, you should first try to stop any bleeding. If the nail is still attached to the nail bed, you can cover it with tape or an adhesive bandage until it has grown out enough to protect the finger. If there is a lot of blood under your nail bed, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing any of the following, you should seek medical attention:
- Loss of blood flow to the area
- Loss of sensation in the fingertip
- Unusual colours on the skin of your fingertip, such as blue or white
- A large amount of blood under the nail, which may indicate a fracture or tissue tear
- Signs of infection, such as pus, redness, swelling, or pain that doesn't go away
On average, it takes about 3.47 mm per month for a fingernail to grow, or about 4 to 6 months for a completely new nail to grow back.
To prevent nail injuries, it is important to wear properly sized shoes and avoid repetitive habits that can cause trauma to the nails, such as nail-biting or cuticle-biting.
