What Causes Changes in Nail Color and Texture After an Accident and How to Restore Them

Introduction

After a minor accident, the toenails on my right toe developed noticeable changes in color and texture, prompting me to seek a better understanding of the underlying causes and the steps to restore them to their normal state. This article explores typical reasons for these changes and provides guidance on how to help your toenails return to normal.

The Incident and Observations

A few weeks ago, while in a half-asleep state, I accidentally hit the pinky toe with something hard. This resulted in a mild bleed, followed by a darkening of the nail, and then a dark green change over the following days. The nail eventually died and fell off, leaving the pinky toe without a nail for a week. However, a new small white nail began to grow from its roots, and this new nail grew to full size within about two weeks.

Causes of Nail Color and Texture Changes

Nail changes following an injury can be attributed to several factors:

Injury and Bleeding: When a toe is struck with significant force, it can cause injury to the nail bed, leading to bleeding. As the nail grows, this blood can cause the nail to appear dark in color. Over time, the nail can change color due to the presence of iron or other substances that can give it a green tinge.

Infection: If the injury is not cleaned properly, it can lead to a fungal or bacterial infection, which may cause the nail to change in color and texture. Infections can also cause the nail to grow abnormally or become brittle.

Nail Bed Damage: The impact may damage the underlying nail bed, which can interrupt the normal growth cycle of the nail. This can result in changes in color and texture as the nail attempts to repair itself.

How to Restore Normal Nail Appearance

To aid in the recovery of your nail, several strategies can be employed:

Rest and Avoid Re-Injury: Allow the toe to rest and avoid any further injuries or trauma that could hinder the growth process.

Cleanliness: Keep the affected area clean and dry to prevent the growth of fungi or bacteria that can cause further discoloration or infections.

Soak in Warm Water: Soaking the injured toe in warm, salt water can help with healing and can ease discomfort.

Consult a Healthcare Professional: In cases where the nail change is persistent or severe, it is wise to seek medical advice from a healthcare provider. They may prescribe antifungal medications or suggest other treatments to restore the nail to its normal state.

Nail Filing and Trimming: As the new nail develops, it can be trimmed and filed to help it grow properly and prevent any irregularities in shape or color.

Conclusion

The changes in nail color and texture are often a result of injury, infection, or underlying health issues. While the nail can typically grow to its normal appearance with proper care and healing time, it is essential to monitor the nail's progress and seek professional medical advice if necessary. Understanding the causes and remedial actions can help ensure a faster and healthier recovery for your toenails.