What Causes Black Toenails?
Most of us have at some point in our lives encountered black toenails. Whether you happened to look down one day and notice one of your toenails had turned completely black, or you’ve seen them on other people, black toenails are common. The most likely reason for black toenails is from trauma to the toenail. When there is a hard enough impact on the toenail it causes a bleed underneath the toenail which then becomes a subungual hematoma, resulting in the black color you see.
Is a Black toenail Painful?
While it can be painless, in some cases black toenails can cause intense pain and may even require special intervention to lessen your discomfort. There may be other things going wrong under the nail. Anybody who can drop something on their foot is eligible for a black toenail, but those who walk around barefoot and athletes are at the highest risk.
What Else can cause Black Toenails?
While trauma is far and away the most common cause of black toenails, there are other possible culprits as well. They could be caused by a fungal infection, bacterial infection, melanoma, or micro-trauma. A black (or dark brown) nail caused by a fungal infection may be accompanied by a foul odour emanating from your toe. Bacterial infection under the toenail may not only smell awful but may also develop a discharge (pus) leaking from under the toenail. Perhaps the rarest reason for having black toenails is melanoma. This is a malignant tumor made up of dark-colored cells named melanocytes. Melanoma under a toenail can be extremely serious. Micro-trauma is a more subtle type of trauma that you don’t notice, like from tight-fitting shoes and can also cause black or dark red black toenails.
What should I do?
Usually in the case of black toenails caused by trauma, you can leave them alone and they will resolve on their own. The toenail sometimes falls off, relieving the pressure underneath and letting it heal. The toenail then grows back on its own. If you don’t notice any serious symptoms like intense pain or signs that your toe is infected, you probably don’t need to seek medical treatment at all.
If you suspect an infection, either fungal or bacterial or a combination of both, you must see your podiatrist or physician.
A completely black toenail may signify that there is a deeper problem in the nail bed. If not treated properly this could end up leaving you with a nasty bone infection called osteomyelitis. If you suspect you might have a serious issue or exposed bone in your nail bed, call your physician or podiatrist right away. Antibiotics may be required and at worst amputation sometimes is necessary!
Golden Rule for Black Toenails
If a dark black area of your toenail doesn’t move and grow out over a few weeks, then it is wise to consider the possibility of melanoma. It may be really tempting to just cover up with nail lacquer. Instead, you must have a professional look at your toenail. They will be able to determine if further investigation is required or whether the nail has been affected by trauma or infection. Better safe than sorry.
What if my black toenail comes off?
If your toenail is half hanging off, and catching on your socks, it can be helpful to tape the nail down. You keep the nail taped until it is ready to be trimmed away or ready to fall off completely. If or when your nail comes off, keeping it covered will stop irritation from your socks or shoes. Over days and weeks, the toe will become more and more comfortable. Please do not just rip the nail off. It never ends well! Keep in mind that once your toenail falls off completely, it may not grow back exactly the same. When in doubt be guided by your podiatrist or doctor.
Prevention is a great strategy before Black Toenails happen
While black toenails are usually harmless in the long run, they can cause you undue suffering and pain, so here are some tips to avoid getting black toenails in the first place. Wear properly fitting footwear. Avoid causing trauma to your toes, like dropping falling objects on them, or stubbing them. Try not to walk around barefoot too often. Keep your toenails properly trimmed, and always wear clean socks and shoes. If your shoes are prone to retaining excessive amounts of moisture, let them dry out once in a while. Keep these tips in mind and you will never have to deal with black toenails.
