Have you ever experienced your toenail falling off after meeting with an accident or due to health conditions, such as fungal infections? This is a common issue which can cause discomfort and pain. It becomes important to understand the cause of the toenail falling off to get the necessary treatment. We spoke to our expert, Dr Sanjay Kumar, General Physician, Cygnus Laxmi Hospital, who listed the common causes of toenail loss, steps to take when it happens, and the expected recovery time.
Causes of Toenail Falling Off
Dr Kumar listed the common causes of toenail loss as follows:
Trauma or Injury
You might have noticed your toenail falling off after an injury, which is one of the most common causes. "Stubbing your toe, dropping a heavy object on your foot, or participating in activities that put pressure on the toenails, such as running or hiking, can result in nail damage or detachment", said Dr Kumar.
Fungal Infection
"Fungal infections, such as athlete's foot or toenail fungus (onychomycosis), can weaken the structure of the toenail, causing it to become brittle, discoloured, and eventually fall off", added Dr Kumar. Toenails are prone to fungus infections when they are moist and warm, especially when they are worn in tight-fitting shoes or if they are not properly groomed.
Also Read: Wishing To Have Nail Longs? Try These 7 Ways To Fasten Your Nail Growth
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails, which occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin is another reason for toenail loss. It can lead to pain, inflammation, and infection and may cause the toenail to detach from the nail bed and eventually fall off.
Systemic Conditions
Dr Kumar added, "Certain systemic conditions, such as psoriasis, diabetes, and peripheral arterial disease, can affect nail health and increase the risk of toenail loss. These conditions may impair blood circulation to the toes or weaken the immune system, making toenails more susceptible to damage and infection."
Tips To Deal With Toenail Loss
Dr Kumar listed some tips that you should follow after your toenail falls off:
Clean the Area
If your toenail falls off, gently clean the affected area with mild soap and water to prevent infection. You should use a sterile bandage or dressing to cover the exposed nail bed and protect it from further injury.
Apply Antiseptic
"Apply an antiseptic ointment or solution to the nail bed to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing. Be sure to follow the instructions provided and avoid using harsh or irritating substances that may cause discomfort", added Dr Kumar.
Also Read: Secret To Healthy Nails: Benefits Of Jojoba Oil For Nails And How To Use It
Protect the Toe
You should protect the affected toe from further trauma or injury by wearing open-toed shoes or sandals that allow for adequate ventilation and minimise pressure on the toenail. Also, avoid tight-fitting footwear or activities that may exacerbate pain or discomfort.
Seek Medical Advice
Dr Kumar highlighted, "If your toenail falls off due to injury, infection, or underlying medical conditions, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment. Depending on the cause and severity of the toenail loss, your doctor may recommend topical or oral medications, surgical intervention, or other therapeutic measures to promote healing and prevent complications."
Recovery Time for Toenail Loss
"The recovery time for toenail loss depends on various factors, including the cause of the nail loss, the extent of damage to the nail bed, and individual healing capabilities. In most cases, a new toenail will begin to grow back within a few weeks to months after the old nail falls off. However, it may take several months for the new nail to fully regrow and replace the lost toenail", said Dr Kumar.
During the recovery period, it's essential to practise good foot hygiene, keep the affected area clean and dry, and follow any treatment recommendations provided by your healthcare provider. Be patient and allow your toenail time to regenerate and heal naturally.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you face any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]