As a follow-up to the ongoing saga of my traumatized hands and feet, I am offering some explanations on why the nail separates from the nail bed as well as options on foot care if you should find yourself with a similar problem.
HOW IT HAPPENS
Just so you know, there is no way to reattach a nail once it detaches. A new nail must grow in its place, and this is a lengthy process. A fingernail can take six months, and a toenail up to eighteen months to grow back.
Just so you know, there is no way to reattach a nail once it detaches. A new nail must grow in its place, and this is a lengthy process. A fingernail can take six months, and a toenail up to eighteen months to grow back.
- Accidentally hitting or jamming the nail
- Wearing shoes that do not have enough room such that the toe is constantly pressed against the toe box
- Fungal nail infection which occurs when a fungus infiltrates the skin underneath the nail (nail bed). Toenails are more commonly infected than fingernails. You may experience discoloration (yellow, green, black, etc.), separation at the edges, cracking, thickened or streaked nails
- Skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema
- Chemicals, including acetone which is found in nail polish remover
- Medicines
- Illness
WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT
Once your nail separates from the nail bed, you may have little alternative to removing the nail, keeping the area dry, and letting a new nail grow. If it were an infection or illness which caused the nail to separate initially, that issue needs to be addressed. You may also need to look at any medications or chemical exposure which may be contributing factors.
Beyond that, here's what else you need to do:
- Remove the nail that has separated and/or torn. If you remove the nail, you will have less concern about catching and tearing some more which can be painful in and of itself. Alternatively, you can cover the nail with tape or a bandage to protect the finger or toe until the new nail grows enough to protect it.
- Trim the nail and file the edges
- Soak your finger or toe in hydrogen peroxide to stem an infection. This has also been shown to prevent toenails from becoming thickened.
- If you're fighting an infection, apply an antibiotic ointment such as Bacitracin, and keep the area covered with a bandage.
