It can be alarming when a toenail falls off, and you see a thin nail underneath. What happened? Is it serious? Will it grow back normally?
Having a toenail detach can be painful and worrying. It is important to understand why this happened in the first place.
This article explains the possible causes for losing a toenail and having a thin nail underneath, what treatments are available, including KeryFlex nail restoration, and how you can prevent this from happening again.
Understanding Onycholysis
Let’s talk about onycholysis, because that’s probably what happened if your toenail fell off. Onycholysis simply means that your nail separated from the nail bed.
When this happens, the nail may look discolored, pitted, or have irregular borders, including cases where the free edge of nail is growing down. The nail may detach partially or fully.
Onycholysis itself isn’t usually painful, but whatever caused the onycholysis might be. That’s why it’s important to figure out the underlying reason your toenail separated from the nail bed. Getting to the root cause is critical for effective treatment and preventing it from happening again.
Common causes of toenail detachment and thin nail growth
There are a number of reasons why a toenail might detach from the nail bed and a thin nail might grow underneath.
Injury
Toenails can detach because of an injury. Accidents or sports mishaps can cause the nail to separate from the nail bed.
In many cases, you may notice a subungual hematoma, or blood under the nail.
Repetitive minor trauma can also cause the toenail to detach. For example, if your shoes are too tight, your toenails may experience repeated small injuries that eventually lead to detachment.
Fungal infections
Fungal infections can cause toenails to detach, as well. You may notice discoloration, odor, thickening, or an unusual shape.
It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis from your doctor to be sure the issue is a fungal infection and not something else.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis can affect toenails, leading to detachment because of a buildup of skin cells under the nail. You may notice discoloration, thickening, or a chalky buildup.
Up to 55 percent of people who have psoriasis on other parts of their body also experience it on their fingernails or toenails. Only 5 percent of people who don’t have psoriasis on their skin will have nail psoriasis.
Other potential causes
In addition to injury, fungus, and psoriasis, some other factors may cause a toenail to detach:
- Systemic conditions, such as thyroid problems or diabetes
- Medications
- Autoimmune diseases
Treating a detached toenail and helping it grow back
If a toenail has come off, here are some steps you can take at home:
- Clean the area gently with soap and water.
- Protect the exposed nail bed with a bandage.
- Trim any rough edges of the detached nail, but don’t try to pull the nail off completely.
- Keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection.
When to see a doctor
You’ll want to seek professional medical care if you have:
- Severe pain
- Signs of infection, such as pus, redness, or swelling
- A large hematoma (blood blister) under the nail
A doctor can help with:
- Antifungal medications if the nail detached due to a fungal infection
- Topical treatments to promote healing
- Management of underlying health conditions that may have contributed to the problem
Helping your nail grow back healthy
It’s important to keep the nail bed clean and protected while the nail grows back.
Be patient! Toenails grow slowly. It can take up to 18 months for a toenail to regrow completely.
Prevention of toenail problems
Here are a few ways you can prevent toenail problems in the first place:
- Foot hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry, and change your socks often.
- Proper footwear: Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or rub against your toes. Wear shoes in public, damp areas like community showers or pools.
- Clean tools: Always disinfect your nail clippers after each use.
- General nail care: Keep your toenails trimmed and avoid activities that could injure them. It’s also a good idea to avoid nail products that might irritate your skin.
If you have diabetes, it’s especially important to follow these guidelines. Talk to your doctor or podiatrist for more specific recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do diabetic toenails look like?
Diabetic toenails can exhibit various changes due to poor circulation and nerve damage. They may become thick, discolored (yellow or brown), brittle, and slow-growing. They are also more prone to fungal infections and ingrown toenails. If you have diabetes, regular foot exams are crucial.
Why have I got another nail growing under my nail?
The appearance of a new nail growing underneath the old one is often due to trauma or injury to the nail bed. This can cause the old nail to detach, while a new nail begins to grow in its place. Fungal infections can also contribute to this condition.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
It’s generally not recommended to cut off a toenail with a fungal infection yourself. Doing so can increase the risk of further infection or injury. Consult a podiatrist or doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment options, which may include topical or oral antifungal medications.
Why did my toenail fall off with a new nail underneath?
This scenario often occurs after an injury, fungal infection, or repetitive trauma (like running). The injury damages the nail matrix, causing the old nail to separate as a new one grows beneath it. Certain medications and underlying health conditions can also contribute.
Should I go to the doctor if my toenail is falling off?
Yes, it’s advisable to see a doctor if your toenail is falling off. A healthcare professional can determine the underlying cause, rule out any serious conditions, and recommend appropriate treatment to prevent infection and promote healthy nail regrowth. This is especially important if you have diabetes or a compromised immune system.
Closing Thoughts
When a toenail falls off, the new nail underneath is often thin and fragile. It’s important to figure out why the toenail came off in the first place so that you can prevent it from happening again.
Taking care of your feet, including considering a medical pedicure, and taking steps to prevent injuries and infections can help keep your toenails healthy. If you have ongoing problems with your toenails, talk with your doctor or a podiatrist to get advice specific to your situation.