A black toenail can be scary, but it’s a common problem with many causes, from minor injuries to more serious health problems. It is important to know why it happens to know if medical attention is needed. If you have a black spot on toenail or see a black line on toenail, it’s important to know what may be causing it and what to do about it. Let’s go ahead:
What Causes a Black Toenail?
While the most common black toenail causes is trauma, there are other causes as well. Some possible causes of a black dot on toenail include:
Trauma or Injury
Physical trauma is one of the leading black toenail causes. Sometimes the nail can look darkened due to bleeding under the nail. This can happen if you stub your toe, drop something heavy on it, or wear tight shoes. The nail turns black or deep purple, as blood pools beneath it. This condition is known as subungual hematoma.
Fungal Infections
A fungal infection can also cause a black mark on toenail. The fungus loves warm, moist environments, like inside shoes, and causes thickened, discoloured nails. If you notice a black dot on toenail, along with other signs such as thickening or brittleness, you may have a fungal infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a nail fungal infection affects 14 percent of the population worldwide.
Melanoma
Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can sometimes appear as a black line on toenail or a black spot on toenail. If not treated early, this condition can be life-threatening. A bruise is mistaken for this kind of melanoma on the nail bed, but it won’t grow out like a bruise would. Nail melanoma (Subungual Melanoma) is responsible for 0.7 to 3.5% of all melanoma cases, but it is more aggressive and can be very serious if not treated early.
Blood Disorders or Circulation Issues
Anaemia or circulation problems can cause changes in toenail colour. In some of these cases, a black toenail can be a sign of poor blood flow or a more serious condition affecting overall blood health. Since they may indicate a more serious concern, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Researchers have discovered that poor blood supply to the legs, caused by conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD), can also cause toenail discolouration.
Black Toenail Treatment
The treatment of a black toenail depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:
Subungual Hematoma
The black toenail usually heals itself as the nail grows out if it is a result of trauma. But if the pain is unbearably severe, a doctor may have to drain the blood under the nail to take pressure off.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are usually treated with topical antifungal medications or oral treatments. In cases wherein symptoms do not improve, a doctor may advise removing part or all of the affected nail to get the proper treatment.
Melanoma Treatment
If a black mark on toenail is identified as melanoma, an individual may require surgical removal of the affected area. Treatment is successful if it is detected early.
When to See a Doctor
A black toenail is usually harmless, but some signs require medical attention. Seek professional advice if you notice any of the following:
- Persistent pain or discomfort
- The black nail doesn’t improve/get worse or grow out
- You also have other symptoms like swelling or pus
- A black line or mark that remains stationary or doesn’t move with nail growth
Understanding the Black Toenail: Key Questions Answered
People have a lot of questions when they have a black nail. Let’s have a look at some frequently asked questions.
Why Is My Toenail Black?
If you’re wondering, “Why is my toenail black?” It is usually because of trauma, a fungal infection, or a health issue. Knowing the cause of your black toenail will allow you to treat it appropriately. Minor trauma or infection can usually be treated at home, but persistent discolouration may need professional medical attention.
What Does a Black Line on My Toenail Mean?
Trauma or a more serious condition such as melanoma can cause a black line on toenail. If the line is growing with the nail, it’s usually the result of an injury. But if the line doesn’t move, you should see a dermatologist or healthcare provider.
How Do I Get Rid of a Black Toenail?
Treatment for a black nail on your toe depends on the cause. If the discolouration is caused by trauma, the nail should heal on its own as the new nail grows. Keeping the nail clean promotes healing, and protects it from further injury. If the cause is a fungal infection, over-the-counter antifungal treatments can help, but more persistent cases may need prescription medication. If you see a black dot on toenail that doesn’t fade or other concerning signs, consult a doctor.
Conclusion
There are several reasons why a toenail can become black, including trauma, a fungal infection, or a more serious condition such as melanoma. To pursue the right black toenail treatment, it is important to find out the underlying cause. However, if you see signs like discolouration that doesn’t fade or pain that lingers for more than a day, you might want to visit a healthcare professional to be on the safe side. Early detection of serious conditions such as melanoma can make a difference in the course of treatment.
