Isla Bennett
A bruised nail is usually the result of an injury, such as stubbing your toe or finger. The injury causes blood to collect between the nail and the nail bed, known as a subungual hematoma. This can be very painful and, in some cases, the nail may fall off. The new nail will grow back in a couple of months, although it may never look quite right again if the nail matrix is damaged. If you notice signs of infection, such as redness or swelling, seek medical attention.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bruised nail cause | Accident, blunt force, trauma |
| Bruised nail appearance | Darkened area, brown or black streak or spot, discolouration |
| Bruised nail symptoms | Pain, throbbing pain, severe pain |
| Bruised nail treatment | Keep the area clean and dry, apply ice, cover with a bandage, seek medical care within two days, see a doctor, X-ray, blood tests, antibiotics, drainage, home remedies |
| Bruised nail recovery time | Several months, 8 weeks for a new fingernail, 6 months for a new toenail, up to 12 months for a toenail to completely regrow |
| Bruised nail complications | Infection, permanent nail deformity, loss of natural contour and shape, nail that never looks quite right, nail thickening, permanent nail changes, splitting, decrease in size |
Explore related products
$15.02 $25.99
What You'll Learn
Bruised nails can take months to grow out
A bruised nail can take months to grow out and heal. A new fingernail can regrow in as little as 8 weeks, while a toenail may take about 6 months to fully regrow. If there has been an injury to the nail bed or the surrounding tissues, the new nail may take longer to grow and may never look quite right again.
The tissue under your nail is bruised, not the nail itself. This is called a subungual hematoma, which is when blood collects between the nail and the nail bed. This can be caused by a severe blow to a finger or toe, or repeated trauma such as pressure from running or hiking.
If you see blood or a bruise under your nail after an injury, it is important to seek medical care soon—within 48 hours. During this time, a healthcare professional can drain the blood to reduce pressure and relieve pain. After 48 hours, the blood will start to clot, making it hard to drain.
In some cases, your nail may fall off right away or weeks later. To avoid this, protect the sensitive skin of the nail bed with a band-aid. If you leave it exposed, it can get very dry and cracked, which can affect how the nail grows. Keep the area clean and dry, and only cover it with a bandage when it needs extra protection or if you are in significant pain.
How Nails Curve: The Science Behind It
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Loosened or avulsed nails may fall off
If your nail is loose or avulsed, it is essential to protect the underlying nail bed. The nail bed contains nerve endings and blood vessels, making it sensitive. Leaving the exposed nail bed open to the air can cause it to become dry and cracked, which can further affect nail growth. Therefore, it is recommended to cover the area with a bandage or Band-Aid to protect it.
If your nail is loose, a healthcare provider may attempt to trim or reattach the nail to safeguard the nail bed while it regrows. In some cases, they may decide to remove the nail, especially if there is a risk of infection or if the injury is severe. Do not attempt to remove or drill the nail yourself, as this can lead to infection and slow down the healing process.
While waiting for your nail to regrow, it is crucial to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. Additionally, be cautious when cutting your nails, as introducing bacteria or fungi can cause infections. It is best to stick to DIY manicures until the nail has fully grown out.
Overall, while a loosened or avulsed nail may fall off, it will typically regrow over a few months. However, severe damage to the nail matrix can result in permanent nail deformities. Seeking medical attention and properly caring for the exposed nail bed are essential steps to promote nail regrowth and maintain nail health.
Argan Oil for Nail Growth: Does It Work?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Protect the nail bed with a band-aid
A bruised nail is usually the result of an accident or injury. The tissue under the nail gets bruised, which is known as a subungual haematoma. In some cases, your nail may fall off right away, or weeks later. If there is an injury to the nail bed, the new nail may take longer to grow and may not look normal.
If your nail falls off, it is a good idea to protect the nail bed with a band-aid. Dr Lain notes, "If you leave it open to the air, it can get very dry and very cracked, and if it gets traumatized, it can affect how the nail grows". It is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. You can also apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment to keep the dressing from sticking.
If you have access to nail glue, you can apply it and then wrap the nail in a bandage to keep it protected. You can also try a liquid band-aid or polysporin. If you have an artificial nail, it is recommended that you keep it in place until the nail bed heals.
If you notice any signs of infection, such as pus, redness, or heat around the nail, or a red streak extending from the wound, seek medical attention.
Dip Nails: At-Home Care When They Grow Out
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Drainage of blood within 48 hours
A bruised nail, or subungual haematoma, is usually the result of an accident or trauma, such as stubbing your toe or finger, where blood pools under your nail plate, causing discolouration. While most bruised nails heal without complications, it is important to seek medical care soon after the injury—within two days. This is because a simple drainage procedure can be performed to ease pain and support healing.
The drainage of blood from a subungual haematoma should be done within 48 hours of the injury. This is because, after this time, the blood will start to clot, making it harder to drain. During the procedure, a local anaesthetic is administered to the affected finger or toe. Then, a healthcare professional will create a small hole in your nail using a cautery device (a tool that uses electricity to produce heat) or another specialised tool.
It is important to note that you should never attempt to drain a subungual haematoma at home as it can lead to serious infection and permanent damage to your nail or finger. Only a healthcare professional should perform this procedure. After the procedure, your nail may bleed a bit, but this should stop quickly. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for changing any bandages they apply to the area.
Even with treatment, your nail may still look discoloured for several weeks, but rest assured that this is normal, and the bruise will gradually fade as your nail grows back. In general, you should keep the area clean and dry, and allow your injured finger or toe to "breathe" as much as possible. Cover it with a bandage only when it needs extra protection or if you are in significant pain.
Cat Claw Care: Will Nails Grow Back?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Signs of infection and when to seek help
A bruised nail is usually the result of an accident or trauma, such as stubbing your toe or hitting your finger. While it can take months for a bruised nail to grow out and look normal again, there are several signs of infection that you should be aware of and know when to seek medical help.
Firstly, if you notice any redness or red streaks in your skin around the nail, this could be a sign of infection. Additionally, if the skin or nail feels warm to the touch, it may indicate an infection. Keep an eye out for any swelling or significant pain, as this could be another indication. If you experience a fever or generally feel unwell, it is important to seek medical attention.
In some cases, your nail may fall off as a result of the injury. If you notice any pus or heat around the area where the nail has fallen off, this could indicate an infection. If your nail has fallen off and you notice any signs of infection, it is important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They will be able to determine if you need antibiotics or any other treatment to prevent further complications.
It is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. You can cover the injured finger or toe with a bandage to protect it and keep it clean. If you notice any signs of infection or if the pain is intense and continuing, seek medical attention immediately. Do not try to drain the blood or treat the injury yourself, as this can lead to serious infection and permanent damage.
If you have not experienced any trauma or injury but notice a darkened area under your nail, it is important to see a doctor to rule out other possible causes, such as a fungal infection, diabetes, or melanoma. They will be able to examine your nail and determine the best course of treatment to ensure proper nail growth and healing.
The Mystery of Nail Growth: When Do Nails Stop?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
A new fingernail can regrow in as little as 8 weeks, but a new toenail may not fully regrow for about 6 months.
If your nail is bruised, it's important to keep the area clean and dry. Cover it with a bandage only when it needs extra protection or if you are in significant pain. If your nail falls off, protect the sensitive skin of the nail bed with a bandage.
Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as a fever, feeling unwell, redness or red streaks in your skin, skin or nail that feels warm to the touch, swelling, or significant pain. If your nail is mostly or completely black, you may have a subungual laceration which will require medical treatment.
Bruised nails are usually the result of an injury, such as stubbing your toe or finger. They can also be caused by repeated trauma, such as pressure from running or hiking.
