Throughout the day, it's easy to accidentally injure yourself by stubbing your toe or dropping something on your foot. Usually, these accidents are no more concerning than the initial pain they cause. However, sometimes you can develop a subungual hematoma, which is often a minor condition that any podiatrist can easily help you care for.

What Are the Causes?

Subungual hematomas are caused by direct trauma to your toe, which can also damage the blood vessels beneath the nail. When these blood vessels are injured, they may cause bleeding or bruising that is visible beneath the nail.  It doesn't have to be a blunt impact to cause this condition; it's also caused by recurring stress on your nail, such as wearing shoes that are too small or uncomfortable.

What Are the Symptoms?

Your nerves will warn you when a subungual hematoma is at risk of developing. You'll feel a dull throb in the area before the discoloration from blood or bruising starts to develop. 

The pain fades over time, but the discoloration will stain your toenail for over a year. It usually doesn't disappear until the toenail physically grows out, and the new growth takes its place.

How Do You Treat It?

Icing an injury with frozen vegetables or a cold pack will reduce any swelling associated with the initial injury. Podiatrists recommend staying off your foot to avoid further injury until the pain fully disappears. 

If your pain lasts for more than a few days, or if the hematoma involves more than half of the toenail, you should consider calling a podiatrist. You may have a more severe form of subungual hematoma and need the assistance of a foot specialist. Your doctor may recommend you get a minimally invasive surgical procedure called a nail trephination to drain the blood from your nail.

Have your subungual hematoma condition treated by Dr. Eric D. Trattner in Fairview Park or Twinsburg, OH. This foot specialist is trained in issues regarding your feet, ankles, heels and toes. He offers various treatments, including laser treatments and minimally invasive procedures to help treat and cure your conditions. Call his office at (440) 333-5350 or (330) 405-3301 to schedule your appointment today, or visit his website to learn more.