Caring for nails is a necessity, rather than being a part of the beauty regime. But, nail problems do appear, no matter how much we care for them. Some of the common nail disorders are discoloration, abnormal thickening, crumbling, layering, splitting, ingrown nail, nail fungus, nail pits and nail falling off amongst others. Coming to toenail separation, several factors are responsible for this unsightly nail problem, which we will discuss in this article.Causes of Falling Toenails
For everyone, seeing the toenails falling away is definitely a subject to worry about. But, why do toenails fall off? While injury or trauma to the toe is an obvious cause for nail loosening and detachment, there are other probable reasons for separation of toenail from the nail bed. One of the causes is onychoptosis, which refers to gradual shedding of fingernails and toenails due to underlying health condition, or medication effects. Affecting one or more nails at a time, part of the nails or whole nails shed periodically. Explained below are other causes for toenail separation from the nail bed.
Injury and Trauma
Physical trauma to the toes is a leading cause of a toenail falling off from the nail bed. Such cases are usually accompanied with bruising and bleeding consequences. While anyone can face this painful nail condition, sportspersons who engage in running most of the time are more susceptible to toenail separation due to injury than others. Also, the risks are higher for those, who wear tight shoes.
Onychomadesis
While the actual causes of onychomadesis are not identified, it is considered a referred sign of some systemic illnesses. In some, It develops as an adverse reaction to certain medications. The actual affected site is the nail matrix, which no longer functions normally. Whatever the causal factor, the common symptom of this nail disorder is gradual shedding of the toenail, starting from the proximal end and progressing towards the free end, resulting in separation of the nail plate.
Onychia
This nail disorder affects both children and adults. It is characterized by inflammation of the tissues of the nail bed, and those adjacent to the toenail plate. What happens is, pathogenic microbes (bacteria, virus, fungi) make their way in these tissues through minor cuts and injuries. Over time, the activity of microbes leads to formation of pus around the nail plate, and at times, underneath the plate. As a consequence, the affected toenail sheds and gets separated from the nail bed.
Fungal Infection
One of the probable causes of toenails falling off is fungal infection. Toenail infection is caused by a group of fungus called dermatophytes, and is medically known as onychomycosis. It is one of the most frequently occurring nail disorders, and many people seek medical help for the same. Infection begins with whitish or yellowish coloration of the affected nail. Overtime, it thickens with unwanted debris getting accumulated on the sides and underneath the toenail plate.
When toenail fungus is left untreated, you will notice crumbling of the edges and layering of the nails. Very often, the skin surrounding the infected nails become inflamed, resulting in painful symptoms. Moreover, the accumulated debris leads to lifting of the affected nail plate from its bed, a condition called onycholysis. In such a case, toenail is vulnerable to falling off on its own. Even bumping of the toenail to a hard object, or mild trauma, will cause it to fall off. Read more on toenails falling off for no reason.
How to Deal with Falling Toenails?
Nothing can be more disheartening than having a toenail that is on the verge of falling off from the nail bed, especially if it is summertime, and you have already shopped floral printed sandals for beach walks. If toenail falls off due to injury, practice first aid tips properly to stop bleeding. In case, part of the nail is affected, cut the affected portion. Complete removal is advisable, if the whole nail plate is affected due to injury. Always keep the injured site clean, to promote quick healing and minimize infection risks.
As for toenail falling off due to fungal infection, treatment is based on preventing further spreading of fungus, while treating the infection symptoms. Applying tea tree oil, vinegar and over-the-counter antifungal creams helps in curing nail fungus. Proper nail care is a must to restore normal health of the toenails. Avoid going barefoot in public places like gyms and swimming pools. In case of severe infection, which do not improve even after adopting home treatment options, consult a podiatrist.
Wearing comfortable and well-fitting footwear is a simple tip to reduce pressure on the toes. Putting on very tight shoes puts pressure on the toenails, and also creates a favorable environmental for fungal infection. Thus, select shoes that give space to the toenails. Fortunately, the lost toenail will grow back within a matter of few weeks or months. But, there is no trick for quick replacement of fallen toenail. The only solution is following useful tips to maintain healthy nails and avoid further problems, while new toenails replace the lost ones.
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