Dried blood under the toenail, also known as a subungual hematoma, can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, trauma, and fungal infections. It can be painful, and in severe cases, it can even lead to the loss of the toenail. Removing the dried blood under the toenail can be a tricky and painful process, but there are some methods that can be effective. In this blog post, we will discuss how to remove dried blood under toenail.
- Soak the foot in warm water
Soaking the foot in warm water is a great way to soften the toenail and make it easier to remove the dried blood. Fill a basin or large bowl with warm water, and soak the foot for 15 to 20 minutes. This will help to loosen the blood and reduce pain and discomfort. Make sure the water is not too hot, as this can cause further damage to the skin and nail.
- Use a sterilized needle
Once the toenail has been soaked, use a sterilized needle to gently lift the edge of the nail away from the skin. You can sterilize the needle by holding it over a flame or soaking it in alcohol. Be sure to use a new, clean needle each time you attempt to remove the blood. Do not use a dull or dirty needle, as this can cause infection.
- Drain the blood
Once you have lifted the edge of the toenail, you should be able to see the dried blood underneath. Use the needle to carefully puncture the skin over the area of the blood. Gently press on the toenail to help drain the blood. You may need to repeat this process a few times to completely remove all of the blood.
- Apply an antiseptic
After draining the blood, apply an antiseptic, such as hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol, to the affected area. This will help to prevent infection and promote healing. Be sure to apply the antiseptic to both the toenail and the surrounding skin.
- Protect the toenail
Once the blood has been removed and the area has been cleaned, it is important to protect the toenail to prevent further injury or infection. You can do this by covering the toenail with a bandage or adhesive tape. This will help to keep the toenail clean and dry, and prevent it from rubbing against shoes or other objects.
- Seek medical attention
If the dried blood under the toenail is severe, or if you experience a lot of pain or discomfort, you may need to seek medical attention. A doctor or podiatrist can assess the extent of the injury and provide appropriate treatment. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the toenail completely to prevent further complications.
Prevention is key
While it is possible to remove dried blood under the toenail, it is always better to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips to help prevent subungual hematomas:
- Wear shoes that fit properly and provide good support. This can help prevent injuries and trauma to the toenail.
- Trim your toenails regularly to prevent them from becoming too long and prone to injury.
- Wear protective footwear when participating in sports or other activities that can cause injury to the toenail.
- Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections that can lead to subungual hematomas.
Conclusion
Dried blood under the toenail can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but there are ways to remove it. Soaking the foot in warm water, using a sterilized needle to lift the nail, draining the blood, applying an antiseptic, and protecting the toenail are all effective methods for removing dried blood. However, prevention is always better than treatment, and there are steps that can be taken to prevent subungual hematomas from occurring. By following good foot care practices and wearing proper footwear, you can help to reduce your risk of developing this condition.
