Nail Bruises: Treatment and Recovery Tips

Q: Nail Bruises: Treatment and Recovery Tips

Hello： The appearance of bruising under the nail indicates that there is bleeding and a hematoma beneath the nail, commonly referred to as a "subungual hematoma," and there may also be some degree of damage to the nail bed. <br>Initially, the expanding hematoma may cause persiste

Nail hematoma

A few days ago, my fingernail got caught in a door, resulting in a bruise in the middle of the nail (the nail itself is intact).
From the outside, there is a small, noticeable dark blue area in the center of the nail.
After a few days, the color has darkened, and it no longer hurts.
Should I do anything about it, or can I just leave it alone? Will my body naturally absorb it?

Guiyu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/08/06

Dr. Huang Junxiong reply Surgery

Hello: The appearance of bruising under the nail indicates that there is bleeding and a hematoma beneath the nail, commonly referred to as a "subungual hematoma," and there may also be some degree of damage to the nail bed.
Initially, the expanding hematoma may cause persistent throbbing pain, and it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
In cases of milder hematomas, the pain may be less severe, as in your situation, and you might not seek medical care, but there are several concerns to be aware of: 1.
Infection of the hematoma: It is important to maintain cleanliness and prevent infection.
2.
Nail detachment: The hematoma can cause separation between the nail and the nail bed; if the detachment is severe, medical attention should be sought.
3.
Potential nail deformity: This depends on the extent of the nail bed injury, and it is advisable to monitor the situation.
Generally, hematomas will be completely absorbed, but if any of the above three issues arise, medical care should be sought.
Dr.
Huang Jun-Hsiung, Trauma Surgery, Hsinchu Hospital.

Reply Date: 2003/08/06

More Info

Nail bruises, also known as subungual hematomas, occur when blood collects under the nail due to trauma, such as being caught in a door. The appearance of a bruise under the nail can be alarming, but in many cases, it is a minor injury that heals on its own. Given your description, it seems that the bruise is darkening and is no longer painful, which is a positive sign indicating that the healing process is underway.

Treatment and Recovery Tips
1. Observation: Since the bruise is not painful and the nail itself is intact, the best course of action is to monitor the injury. Most subungual hematomas resolve without any medical intervention. The body will gradually reabsorb the blood, and the discoloration will fade over time.

2. Pain Management: If you experience any discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate pain. However, since you mentioned that there is no pain, this may not be necessary.

3. Nail Care: Keep the affected nail clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to excessive moisture or trauma. If you need to, you can cover the nail with a bandage to protect it from further injury.

4. Avoiding Pressure: Try to avoid putting pressure on the injured finger. This can help prevent any additional pain or discomfort and allows the bruise to heal more effectively.

5. Watch for Complications: While most nail bruises heal without issues, be vigilant for signs of complications. If you notice increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection (such as redness, warmth, or pus), it is important to seek medical attention. Additionally, if the nail begins to lift or separate from the nail bed, a healthcare professional should evaluate it.

6. Timeframe for Healing: The healing time for a nail bruise can vary. Generally, it may take several weeks for the discoloration to fade completely, and the nail may take longer to grow out fully. The nail grows at an average rate of about 1/8 inch per month, so it may take a few months for the nail to return to its normal appearance.

7. When to Seek Medical Attention: If the bruise does not improve over time, or if you experience significant pain or changes in the nail structure, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They may need to assess whether there is any underlying damage to the nail bed or if the hematoma requires drainage.

Conclusion
In summary, since your nail bruise is not causing pain and is showing signs of healing, you can likely manage it at home with minimal intervention. The body is quite capable of reabsorbing the blood and healing the area. However, remain observant for any changes that might indicate complications, and do not hesitate to seek medical advice if needed. Taking care of your nails and protecting them from further trauma will aid in a smooth recovery.

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