A bruised toenail is also known as asubungual hematoma, which is blood and fluid trapped beneath thetoenail.
This gives the toenail a red, black, or purple discoloration.
It is often calledblack toenailfor that reason.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
Verywell / Jessica Olah
What Is a Subungual Hematoma?
A subungual hematoma comes up whenever blood becomes trapped under the nail.
When blood pools up beneath the nail, it can appear red, blue, black, or purple.
It can happen to toenails or fingernails.
Symptoms of a subungual hematoma can change as the blood builds up and more pressure is felt.
Causes of a Bruised Toenail
A bruised toenail is usually because of some kind of trauma.
If the condition seems severe, your provider may order X-rays or blood tests.
This can help them see if there is a broken bone or infection contributing to the condition.
At-Home Treatments for a Bruised Toenail
Most subungual hematomas can be managed at home.
The nail may fall off on its own or simply grow out over time.
However, if the injury was severe, the entire toenail itself may need 12 months to regrow.
A lost fingernail can take between four to six months to grow back.
This may take less time if the injury is minor.
A large hematoma can be a sign that you have a subungual laceration.
These changes could be permanent.
If the nail is raised or cut, it could also increase the risk of afungal or bacterial infection.
If you have diabetes, managing your condition can help improve symptoms such as a discolored nail.
You should avoid removing or drilling the injured nail yourself at home.
Doing so could lead to infection and slow the healing process.
Complications
Nail damage may lead to changes in the nail’s structure.
This is usually temporary, but if the trauma was severe, it may be permanent.
American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.Subungual hematoma.
2023;15(11):e48952.
National Library of Medicine.Nail injuries.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Open fractures.
Emergency Medicine Resident Education.Nail trauma.
Montgomery A.Stem cell based delivery system in a non-regenerative nail injury model.
Mozena J, Jones PC.Joggers toe: Is the sock the culprit?Podiatry Today.
