Losing a toenail can be a painful and alarming experience, but it’s actually a pretty common problem with many potential causes.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most frequent reasons why a toenail might detach or fall off completely, including injuries, skin conditions like psoriasis, and, yes, even nail fungus. Specifically, a nail fungus can lead to a toenail falling off.
We’ll also give you practical tips on what to do if you find yourself in this situation, how to prevent it from happening again, and when it’s time to seek professional medical help.
What causes toenails to fall off?
There are several reasons why a toenail might detach and fall off. Here are some of the most common causes.
Fungal infections (onychomycosis)
Fungal infections are often the reason for a toenail separating from the nail bed. A fungal infection can cause the nail to get thick, discolored, brittle, or even smelly.
If you have toenail fungus, you may notice:
- discoloration
- thickening
- brittleness
You’re more likely to get a fungal infection in your toenails if you also have athlete’s foot or diabetes, or if you share personal items like nail clippers or towels. If you treat athlete’s foot right away, you may be able to keep it from spreading to your toenails.
Trauma and injuries
If you stub your toe, drop something heavy on your foot, or wear shoes that are too tight, your toenail might fall off. Sometimes, an injury can cause blood to pool under the nail (subungual hematoma), which can also lead to detachment.
Wearing the right shoes is key, especially when you’re doing activities that could hurt your feet. Runners, for example, should choose running shoes that fit well and cushion the feet.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis can affect your toenails, making them turn yellow, get thick, develop pits, or grow into unusual shapes. Over time, this can lead to the nail falling off.
Psoriasis can also cause a scaly buildup under the toenails. Nail psoriasis is a specific condition that might need its own treatment plan.
What to do if your toenail falls off
If your toenail falls off, you’ll want to act fast. If you don’t, you’re leaving yourself open to a nasty infection. Here’s what you should do:
- First, soak your toe in cold water for about 20 minutes. This will help with the swelling.
- Next, clean the area with warm water and put some antibiotic ointment on it. Then, cover the exposed nail bed with a non-stick bandage.
- If your toe is throbbing, an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen should do the trick. You can also elevate your foot to help with the swelling.
One thing you should definitely not do is pick at the nail bed or try to pull off any nail that’s still hanging on, even after toenail removal. Instead, just trim any loose bits to keep them from snagging on your sock.
Preventing Toenail Loss
The best way to avoid losing a toenail is to prevent the infections and injuries that cause it in the first place. Here’s how to do that:
- Practice good foot hygiene. Keep your feet clean and dry, especially in between your toes. Change your socks if they get damp.
- Wear appropriate shoes. Make sure your shoes fit well and give your toes plenty of room. Wear shower shoes in communal showers and locker rooms to avoid coming in contact with fungus.
- Take care of your toenails. Keep your toenails trimmed short and straight. Always disinfect your nail clippers.
Toenail regrowth and when to see a podiatrist
If your toenail falls off due to a fungal infection, it can take a long time to grow back. You’re looking at several months to a year, or even longer.
It’s important to see a podiatrist if:
- You suspect a fungal infection, particularly if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
- You have increased pain, swelling, redness, or discharge around the nail bed.
- You have underlying conditions like diabetes or psoriasis, which can make toenail problems more complex.
A podiatrist can properly diagnose the cause of your toenail falling off and recommend the best treatment plan to prevent further issues and promote healthy regrowth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I remove my toenail if it is falling off?
Resist the urge to pull off a toenail that’s detaching due to fungus. This can increase the risk of infection. Instead, gently trim away any loose edges and keep the area clean and dry. Consult a doctor or podiatrist; they may recommend professional removal and treatment to prevent further spread.
Will a nail grow back if you lose it to fungus?
Yes, a nail should grow back after falling off due to fungus, but it can take a considerable amount of time – often several months to a year. The new nail may initially appear discolored or thickened, but with consistent treatment and proper care, it should eventually return to normal.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
Wearing clean, breathable socks to bed can actually be beneficial if you have toenail fungus. Socks help absorb moisture, which impacts fungus growth time. Change your socks daily and consider using antifungal powder on your feet before putting them on. Opt for cotton or wool socks over synthetic materials.
How do you treat lifted toenail fungus?
Treating a lifted toenail fungus requires a multi-pronged approach. This typically involves prescription antifungal medications (oral or topical), regular trimming of the affected nail, maintaining excellent foot hygiene, and addressing any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the infection. See a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
While not a proven cure, some people find Vicks VapoRub helpful for managing nail fungus. Its ingredients, like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, have some antifungal properties and can help soften the nail, making it easier to trim. However, it’s generally considered a complementary treatment and may not be effective for severe infections.
In Summary
Losing a toenail can be alarming. Understanding why it happened and taking care of your foot can help your toe heal and prevent further problems.
Keeping your feet clean, wearing well-fitting shoes, and quickly treating any underlying conditions can help keep your toenails healthy.
If you’re unsure what to do, see a podiatrist. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best treatment.