Isla Bennett
Fingernail injuries are common, and can cause bleeding under the nail, known as a subungual haematoma. This can be caused by a heavy impact or blow to the finger, or by wearing shoes that are too tight. Treatment depends on the type and seriousness of the injury. If the injury is minor, you may be able to treat it at home by stopping the bleeding, gently washing any cuts, and applying a bandage. For more serious injuries, you should seek medical attention, as you may need stitches or antibiotics to prevent infection.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name of Condition | Subungual Hematoma |
| Description | Bleeding under the nail |
| Causes | Smashing the finger, hitting it with a hammer, cutting with a knife, stubbing the toe, wearing tight shoes, running, or a severe blow to the finger |
| Symptoms | Severe throbbing pain, discoloration, pressure, swelling, inability to move the finger, cut or laceration, signs of infection |
| Treatment | Drainage of excess fluid, stitches, removal of the nail, elevation of the hand or foot, ice packs, compression, pain relievers, antibiotics |
| Healing Time | 48 hours for blood to clot, 7-10 days for the nail bed to heal, 4-6 months for a new fingernail, 12 months for a toenail |
| Complications | Infection, broken bones, damage to the nail bed, melanoma (skin cancer) |
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What You'll Learn
See a doctor if you have not injured your nail
If you notice bleeding under your nail and you haven't injured it, it's important to see a doctor to rule out other possible causes. This is known as a subungual haematoma, and it can cause symptoms such as severe throbbing pain and a darkened area under the nail. The pressure of blood collecting between the nail and the nail bed can be extremely uncomfortable.
If you have not injured your nail but are experiencing symptoms such as intense pain, swelling, or discolouration, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor will be able to examine your nail and determine if there is an underlying cause for concern. They may recommend an X-ray to check for any bone fractures or other injuries. While subungual haematomas are usually not a cause for worry, it is always better to be cautious and seek professional advice.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, your doctor may recommend a procedure called trephination or nail decompression. This involves draining the excess blood that has collected under the nail to relieve the pressure and reduce pain. It is important to see a medical professional for this procedure, as attempting to drain the blood at home can be dangerous. They may numb the affected finger or toe with a nerve block and then use a heated wire (electrocautery device) or a carbon laser to burn a hole in the nail, allowing the blood to drain.
In some cases, if there is extensive damage to the nail bed or surrounding tissues, your doctor may need to remove the entire nail to repair the area. This is typically done if the bleeding covers a large area of the nail surface. A new fingernail can regrow in as little as 8 weeks, but it may take longer if there has been significant damage. Even with proper repair, there is a possibility that the new nail may not grow back normally. Therefore, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions and return for any necessary follow-up appointments.
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Drain the blood to relieve pressure
If you are experiencing severe, throbbing pain due to bleeding under your nail, you may be able to relieve it by draining the blood. This procedure is not recommended if you are not experiencing any pain. If the affected area continues to collect blood, you experience extreme pain, or the injury is at the base of the nail, it is best to seek medical attention.
If you choose to drain the blood at home, you can do so by following these steps:
- Straighten a paper clip and heat one tip in a flame until it is red-hot.
- Place the heated tip of the paper clip on your nail and let it melt through. Be careful not to push or apply pressure on the paper clip, as this could accidentally touch the skin under your nail.
- Go slowly and reheat the clip as needed. A thick nail may take several attempts.
- Once the hole is complete, the blood will escape and the pain should be relieved.
- After the procedure, soak your finger in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes, three times a day for two to three days.
It is important to note that this procedure should only be performed if it is safe to do so. If you are unsure or uncomfortable, it is always best to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can drain the excess fluid and relieve the pressure if seen within 48 hours of the injury. They may also recommend soaking your finger in a warm solution with Epsom salts to aid in draining fluid and reducing pain.
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Remove rings to prevent swelling
Bleeding under the nail, or subungual hematoma, is usually caused by a traumatic injury, such as smashing your finger in a door or cutting it with a sharp object. If you are experiencing bleeding under your nail, it is important to take action to stop the bleeding and prevent further injury. One crucial step is to remove any rings from the affected finger.
Removing rings is important to prevent swelling, which can occur due to various factors such as increased blood flow, fluid retention, or inflammation. Swelling can cause rings to become stuck on your finger, restricting blood circulation and potentially leading to a serious injury called ring avulsion. Ring avulsions can cause severe damage to the finger, often requiring amputation.
To prevent swelling and the risks associated with ring avulsion, it is recommended to remove rings when engaging in activities that may cause your fingers to swell, such as exercising, spending time in the sun, or working with tools and equipment. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, can cause swelling and make it uncomfortable or difficult to wear rings.
If your finger is already swollen, it is best to seek medical assistance to remove the ring safely. However, if the swelling is mild, you can try home remedies such as reducing your body temperature, applying lubrication, or using the wrap method with dental floss or thread. Remember to act quickly, as delaying the removal of the ring can cause further complications.
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Apply ice to reduce throbbing
If you are experiencing bleeding under your fingernail, it is important to act quickly to reduce the throbbing pain and prevent further complications. One effective way to achieve this is by applying ice to the affected area.
Begin by wrapping some ice cubes in a clean cloth or towel. Apply the ice pack to your injured finger for 20 minutes at a time, ensuring you repeat this process every 2 hours on the first day. From the second day onwards, continue to apply ice 3 to 4 times a day. Elevating your hand above the level of your heart can also help to reduce throbbing and discomfort.
Applying ice is a well-known home remedy for reducing pain and swelling. It can provide temporary relief from the throbbing sensation caused by the built-up blood under your nail. This is known as a subungual hematoma, which occurs when blood vessels under the nail break open due to an injury.
If you are experiencing intense pain or the bleeding is severe, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor may recommend draining the excess fluid to relieve pressure, especially if you seek treatment within 48 hours of the injury. In some cases, a bandage, splint, or even stitches may be required to protect the nail and support the healing process.
Remember, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or if your symptoms persist. They can examine your injury and provide personalized advice and treatment options.
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Take painkillers to reduce pain and swelling
If you are experiencing pain or swelling due to a subungual hematoma (bleeding under the nail), there are a few things you can do to help manage the pain and reduce swelling. Firstly, it is important to rest the affected finger or toe and avoid using it as much as possible. This will help reduce any further trauma to the area. Applying ice to the injured nail can also help alleviate swelling and pain. Wrap some ice in a soft cloth and apply it to the affected area. You can also try elevating your hand or foot to further reduce swelling.
If you are experiencing more intense pain, over-the-counter painkillers can help. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, Advil, or Motrin can help reduce pain and swelling. It is important to note that these medications may not be suitable for everyone, so it is always best to check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking any new medication.
In some cases, the pain and swelling associated with a subungual hematoma may be severe and require medical attention. If the pain is unmanageable or if you experience any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus around the nail, it is important to seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider may recommend a procedure called trephination or nail decompression, which involves draining the blood that has collected under the nail to relieve pressure and reduce pain. This procedure is usually quick and painless and can help prevent the need for more invasive treatments, such as removing the nail.
It is important to remember that if you have any concerns about the appearance of blood under your nails or if the bleeding does not stop, you should contact your healthcare provider for advice. They can assess the severity of the injury and provide appropriate treatment options to help manage your symptoms and promote healing.
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Frequently asked questions
A subungual hematoma is a bleeding under a fingernail or toenail. It usually happens when the nail gets crushed in an injury.
If you have a subungual hematoma, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. If it's been less than 48 hours, your doctor can drain the excess fluid and relieve the pressure.
Treatments for a subungual hematoma include resting the digit, using a cool pack, keeping the hand or foot elevated, and applying compression.
A subungual hematoma can take months or years to heal on its own. A new fingernail will take about 4 to 6 months to grow back, while a toenail may take about 12 months.
