Trauma and Injury:
Picture this: accidentally stubbing your toe against a hard object or dropping something heavy on it. These scenarios often lead to trauma or injury, causing blood vessels beneath the toenail to rupture and turn the nail black.
Repetitive Stress:
Athletes, especially runners, frequently encounter black toenails due to repetitive stress on their toes. The continuous pressure and friction from activities like running or hiking can damage the blood vessels beneath the toenail, resulting in discoloration.
Fungal Infections:
Fungal infections, such as onychomycosis, are notorious for altering toenail color. While they typically manifest as yellowing or thickening of the nail, fungal infections can occasionally cause a black discoloration if left untreated.
Blood Clots:
In rare cases, a black toenail may indicate the presence of a blood clot under the nail. This usually occurs following a minor injury that causes bleeding beneath the nail, leading to clot formation. Prompt medical attention is crucial if a blood clot is suspected.
Subungual Hematoma:
A subungual hematoma occurs when blood accumulates under the toenail after an injury. This accumulation of blood can darken the toenail. In severe cases, draining the blood may be necessary to relieve pressure and prevent further damage.
Melanoma:
Though uncommon, melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can develop under the toenail, resulting in dark discoloration. Any unexplained changes in toenail color should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out serious conditions like melanoma.
Prevention and Treatment:
Wear proper footwear to protect your toes from injuries and trauma.
Trim your toenails straight across to reduce the risk of ingrown toenails.
Practice good foot hygiene to prevent fungal infections.
Address toe injuries promptly by cleaning the wound and applying antiseptic.
Regularly monitor the health of your toenails and seek medical attention for any concerning changes.
