Our Potomac, MD, podiatrist often sees patients whose toenails have turned gray or black. Has your own toenail turned black or grey recently? Keep reading to learn about different conditions that can affect the health of your foot, and what you should do next for your toenail.
Trauma Is Often the Cause, Advises Our Potomac, MD, Podiatrist.
Your toenail can gradually turn a grey or black color anytime blood accumulates beneath the nail. Here are 3 common reasons why you might end up with a dead toenail:
- Your tight or ill-fitting shoes can create constant friction on your toe, eventually causing enough irritation to turn your toenail black. You may love your trendy, fashionable shoe wear – but your feet don't like it nearly as much!
- Athletes or sport enthusiasts who spend a lot of time running or playing a sport like soccer can experience repetitive pressure on their feet. According to our Potomac podiatrist, this can also cause an injured toenail. Make sure you select athletic footwear designed for your particular sport for the maximum support and protection.
- An injury to your foot is another common reason to develop a dead toenail. We know all too well how easy it is to accidentally stub your toe or even drop a heavy object on your foot. Never move furniture in bare feet, warns our Potomac, MD, podiatrist.
Do You Need to See Our Potomac, MD, Podiatrist for a Dead Toenail?
Usually, you don't need to see a doctor for a dead toenail. Most injured toenails turn black, fall off on their own, and simply grow back over time without additional medical treatment. However, our podiatrist in Potomac, MD, cautions that you need to see a doctor if the toenail becomes infected.
Call The Podiatry Center If You Experience Signs of Infection
If you notice inflammation, redness, or discharge in the affected area, it is important that you follow up with your Potomac podiatrist. An ongoing infection needs to be treated properly to prevent worsening or spreading. Our podiatrist may completely remove the nail to effectively treat an infected nail bed.
Our Potomac, MD, Podiatrist Can Help Resolve Your Foot or Ankle Condition
If you aren't sure what to do about a dead toenail, make an appointment with one of our expert foot specialists! Our team at The Podiatry Center is here for all your foot health needs.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn about other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office near Potomac, MD, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
