Complication of Onychomycosis

Hematoma formation (pooling of blood) underneath the nail can occur as a result of physical demands on the feet during sports and other high impact activities. Blood accumulation may be the result of pressure against the toe from a thickened fungal nail or may occur after blunt trauma to the nail. An x-ray will determine if there is a fracture to the bones of the toe. If a laceration to the nail bed is suspected, the toenail will have to be removed for inspection and repair of any open wounds. Otherwise, a small hole in the nail plate can be made to relieve pressure from the accumulated blood.

Soaking the foot will cleanse the area of dried blood and prevent infections. Often, the injured nail will fall off on its own and the sensitive nail bed will become covered with hardened skin. If there is no injury to the bones of the foot, normal activities can be continued. Within 3 to 9 months, a new nail plate will fully replace the missing nail. However, because damage may have been done to the nail matrix, this new toenail may not necessarily grow in normally.