How do I know if I have toenail fungus or a bruise?

If the spot is black and shiny, it is likely a bruise and less likely toenail fungus, especially if you recall when or why that bruising might have occurred (example, if you stubbed your toe). If the discoloration is yellow, gray, or greenish in tint, it is more likely a toenail fungus infection.

What does it mean when your toenails look bruised?

If you’ve recently dropped something on your foot or stubbed your toe on something, your nail discoloration could be a symptom of a subungual hematoma. This injury can also result from wearing shoes that are too tight. Subungual hematomas can make your nail appear red or purple.

Why are my big toenails bruised?

When Toes Turn Dark The most common culprit for a black toenail is blood under the hard tissue. Damage to the end of the toe causes blood to leak through the nail bed and stain the keratin a dark color. This is also known as a subungual hematoma, or a bruise under the nail.

Does a black toenail mean fungus?

Fungal infections Fungal infections are another common problem that can cause black toenails to form. Typically, a fungal infection causes a white or yellowish discoloration. However, debris can build up near the infection, causing the nail to appear black.

When should I go to the doctor for a bruised toenail?

If the subungual hematoma extends to a little over a quarter or half of your toenail, then you must seek treatment at a doctor’s office. If you experience throbbing or severe pain near the hematoma, your doctor will determine if the hematoma needs to be drained to relieve the pressure.

What does a bruised toenail look like?

The bruise usually starts out red, then becomes purple, dark brown, and finally black when blood beneath the nail pools and clots. Expect your black toenail to grow out in about 6 to 9 months or longer.

How to tell a bruise under the toenail from toenail fungus?

If the bruise is moving, it is much more likely to be a bruise under the nail and not toenail fungus. Whereas the nail can grow, but when you get fungus, the fungus is spreading this direction so it doesn’t really look like it’s moving at all. The easiest way to tell that for sure is to take a picture of it and then mark it on your computer.

What does it mean if you have a bruise under your toe?

A bruise under the toenail is also known as “ subungual hematoma ” which means blood under the toenail. It is not a serious health concern; however, the nail can fall off or become dead if not well cared for soon. A bruised nail might become dark blue or black in color.

What are fungus gnats and what are they called?

All manner of insects play an incredibly vital role in our ecosystem; however, their place is outdoors. Fungus gnats, also known as mold gnats, are those annoying little pests flying around your houseplants, while not harmful to people or pets, can be incredibly frustrating have in your home.

What kind of fungus can you get on your toenails?

Candida infection of the nail. This happens when a yeast infection takes hold in the toenail. The nail plate may thicken and separate from the nail bed. “This type of fungal infection tends to affect fingernails more than toenails,” Dr. Goad says.

How do I know if I have toenail fungus or a bruise? If the spot is black and shiny, it is likely a bruise and less likely toenail fungus, especially if you recall when or why that bruising might have occurred (example, if you stubbed your toe). If the discoloration is yellow, gray, or greenish…