Guide To The Causes And Symptoms Of A Subungual Hematoma

Dark Discoloration Under Affected Nail

Because the blood vessels are damaged during the injury, blood will pool in the affected area. This will cause a dark discoloration under the affected nail. The discoloration can be several shades of purple, red, even black and will probably change over time as the nail bed heals. Even after the body heals the injury, the nail may still be discolored. Many times, patients have to wait until the nail grows out and they can cut it off. Depending on how fast their nails grow, this can potentially take a long time. Thankfully, if individuals injured a toenail, they might be able to hide the bruising in their shoes. Some patients might even take the steps of getting their fingernails painted if one becomes injured and has discoloration.

Crush Injury To Blood Vessels Causing Bruising

A crush injury is an injury that happens when the pressure of a heavy object is put on a body part. This kind of injury is possible even when talking about fingers and toes, thus causing damage to the blood vessels under the fingernail. This will result in bruising under the nail and trauma to the vessels underneath and often a subungual hematoma. Unfortunately, along with the damage to the nail bed, the injury can include broken bones or dislocation. If a crush injury is suspected, it is important to get treatment as soon as possible. The blood vessels and blood flow to the area need to be restored and fixed for the patient to fully recover.