A subungual hematoma, commonly referred to as blood under the fingernail, occurs when blood accumulates in the space between the nail plate and the nail bed. This condition often results from trauma to the finger, such as slamming it in a door, stubbing it, or dropping something heavy on it. The injury causes small blood vessels under the nail to break, leading to bleeding into the confined space. While it can be painful and alarming, in most cases, the blood will eventually be reabsorbed by the body, and the nail will grow out normally. However, understanding the causes and knowing how to treat it can help alleviate discomfort and prevent potential complications.
Causes of Blood Under Fingernail
The primary cause of blood under the fingernail is trauma to the finger. This can happen in various ways, including:
- Direct injury: A blow to the finger from a hard object or surface.
- Crushing injury: Dropping something heavy on the finger.
- Repetitive injury: Repeatedly hitting or bumping the finger, common in certain sports or occupations.
In addition to trauma, other less common causes can include:
- Infections: Certain infections can cause bleeding under the nail.
- Tumors: Rarely, a tumor under the nail can cause bleeding.
- Medications: Some medications that thin the blood can make it easier to bleed under the nail.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The symptoms of blood under the fingernail can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:
- Pain: The area under the nail can be very painful due to the pressure of the accumulated blood.
- Discoloration: The nail may appear black, blue, or purple due to the blood.
- Swelling: The finger may swell around the injured area.
Diagnosis is usually made based on the appearance of the nail and the patient's history of trauma. In some cases, an X-ray may be taken to rule out a fracture.
Treatment of Blood Under Fingernail
Treatment for blood under the fingernail focuses on relieving pain and preventing infection. Here are some steps you can take:
Home Remedies
For minor cases, several home remedies can help:
- Ice: Applying ice to the injured finger can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Elevation: Keeping the finger elevated can also help reduce swelling.
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain.
Medical Treatment
If the pain is severe or if there's a risk of infection, medical treatment may be necessary:
- Drainage: In some cases, a healthcare provider may need to drain the blood from under the nail to relieve pressure and pain.
- Antibiotics: If there's a risk of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It's essential to seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe pain that doesn't improve with treatment
- Signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus
- Difficulty moving the finger
- If the blood doesn't seem to be resolving on its own
Key Points
- Trauma to the finger is the primary cause of blood under the fingernail.
- Symptoms include pain, discoloration of the nail, and swelling.
- Treatment focuses on relieving pain and preventing infection.
- Home remedies include applying ice, elevation, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Medical treatment may involve drainage of the blood or antibiotics.
Understanding the causes and knowing how to treat blood under the fingernail can help you manage the condition effectively. While it's usually not a serious condition, being aware of when to seek medical attention can prevent complications.
What is the most common cause of blood under the fingernail?
+The most common cause of blood under the fingernail is trauma to the finger, such as slamming it in a door or stubbing it.
How can I relieve pain from blood under the fingernail?
+You can relieve pain by applying ice to the injured finger, elevating the finger, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
When should I seek medical attention for blood under the fingernail?
+You should seek medical attention if you experience severe pain that doesn’t improve with treatment, signs of infection, difficulty moving the finger, or if the blood doesn’t seem to be resolving on its own.