Most people don’t spend a lot of time thinking about their toenails, but you might notice changes in how quickly they grow from time to time. If you’re like most people, you might see some toenails grow faster or slower than others, for instance, or perhaps even experience a dead toenail.
But, what does it mean when only one toenail stopped growing altogether? It can be alarming to notice that just one of your toenails seems to have given up on growing.
This article will explore some of the possible reasons why only one toenail stopped growing and when it’s time to see a doctor about it.
Understanding Normal Toenail Growth and Variations
Toenails grow. It’s just a fact of life. But what’s normal, and what’s not?
Average Toenail Growth Rate
In general, toenails grow about 1.62 millimeters per month, but growth rates can vary quite a bit from person to person.
What Does Slow Toenail Growth Indicate?
Slower-than-usual toenail growth can be a sign of an underlying health condition. If you notice this, it’s worth mentioning to your doctor.
It’s not normal for a toenail to stop growing completely. If you see that one of your toenails has simply stopped growing, you should seek medical attention.
Potential causes of a single toenail stopping growth
If just one of your toenails has stopped growing, it’s usually a local issue rather than a sign of a systemic problem.
Trauma and injury
Trauma to your toe can temporarily stop the growth of a toenail. This is especially true if the nail bed itself sustains an injury.
Toe injuries are common. Stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it can cause enough trauma to disrupt the nail’s growth cycle, and potentially lead to infection after trauma.
Infection
Fungal infections are another common cause of changes in toenail growth. The infection can affect the nail matrix, which is where the nail cells are produced. When the matrix is damaged by an infection, it can change the way the nail grows.
Nutritional deficiencies
Although less common than trauma or infection, nutritional deficiencies can sometimes play a role in nail health. You need key nutrients like biotin, zinc, and iron for healthy nail growth. These nutrients contribute to cell growth and repair, and without them, your nails may not grow as they should.
Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions, like diabetes and hypothyroidism, can also impact nail growth. These conditions can affect your circulation and metabolism, which in turn can impact the health of your nails. When your body isn’t functioning optimally, it can sometimes show up in changes to your nails.
How circulation affects toenails
Your circulatory system’s job is to deliver blood, oxygen, and nutrients throughout your body. When blood flow is poor, your toenails may not get what they need to grow and stay healthy.
Poor circulation can lead to:
- slowed or stopped nail growth
- discoloration of the nail
Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) happens when your arteries narrow or become blocked, which reduces blood flow. PAD can affect any artery, but it most often affects arteries in the legs.
PAD can cause:
- slow or stopped toenail growth
- discoloration
- brittle nails
PAD also increases your risk of infection. Because blood flow is limited, your body can’t fight off infection as easily.
PAD-related toenail issues
If you have one toenail that’s stopped growing, be on the lookout for other signs of PAD, such as:
- leg pain when you walk or climb stairs
- numbness in your feet
- feet that are unusually cold
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to get a diagnosis. The earlier you start treatment, the better the outcome.
Slow toenail growth linked to PAD involves managing the underlying condition. In some cases, that may mean lifestyle changes, such as:
- quitting smoking
- eating a healthy diet
- getting regular exercise
You may also need medical treatment to improve your circulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills toenail fungus instantly?
Unfortunately, there’s no magic bullet that instantly eliminates toenail fungus. Treatment typically involves topical or oral antifungal medications, and it can take several months to see results. Consistency and patience are key when dealing with fungal infections.
What do kidney disease nails look like?
Kidney disease can manifest in nail changes, such as Lindsay’s nails (half white, half pink/brown), Beau’s lines (horizontal ridges), or nail clubbing. However, these nail changes can also be associated with other conditions, so it’s important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis.
How to flatten a pincer nail naturally?
Flattening a pincer nail naturally can be challenging, as it involves reshaping the nail plate. Soaking the nail in warm water and gently filing the sides may help, but this is usually a temporary fix. A podiatrist can offer more effective treatments like nail bracing or surgery.
Why is one nail not growing?
A single toenail that’s stopped growing could be due to various factors, including trauma to the nail bed, fungal infection, underlying medical conditions, or even tight-fitting shoes. It’s best to see a podiatrist to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
What does stage 1 nail melanoma look like?
Stage 1 nail melanoma often presents as a dark streak (melanonychia) that runs from the base of the nail to the tip. It may also involve changes in the nail’s shape or surrounding skin. Any suspicious dark streaks or changes in your nails should be evaluated by a dermatologist as soon as possible.
To Conclude
It’s important to pay attention to your toenails because changes in how they grow can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health problem. If you notice that one of your toenails has stopped growing or is growing much more slowly than the others, talk with your doctor. Slow toenail growth on just one toe could be a sign of a problem with circulation, an infection, or even an injury you might not remember. Whatever the cause, it’s important to get it checked out!