Toenails
What causes toenail loss?
Losing a toenail can be concerning and painful. There are many reasons why a toenail may fall off and treatment will depend on the cause. Learn what causes toenail loss, what you should do if it happens and when to see a podiatrist.
What causes toenails to fall off?
There are many reasons why your toenail may fall off. The most common are fungal infections, psoriasis and injuries.
However, sometimes medications, other health conditions and chemicals can be to blame.
Fungal infections
If you develop a fungal infection between the nail and nail bed, your toenail may fall off. However, early treatment can prevent you losing your nail. Signs you may have a fungal infection include:
- nails that are noticeably thicker
white or yellowish-brown discolouration on your nails - dry or ragged toenails, or nails that easily break
- unusual toenail shape
foul-smelling toenails
If you notice any of the above signs, see your podiatrist for treatment. This can involve topical creams, antifungal medications or a combination of the above. But early treatment may be enough to prevent your nail from falling off.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes skin cells to build up resulting in scaly, red patches. While psoriasis often appears on the skin it can also affect the toenails. Skin cells build up under the nail causing the nail to fall off.
Symptoms of psoriasis under your toenail include:
- nail that is yellow or brown in colour
thick nails - an unusual shaped nail
- pitting in the nail
a chalky buildup under the nail.
You can try soaking your feet in warm water and then smoothing the edges of your remaining toenail with a file, followed by moisturiser.
Other treatment may involve applying topical steroids on your nail and cuticle. Sometimes light therapy may be used. Symptoms of fungus and psoriasis are similar, so it’s important to see a podiatrist to determine the exact cause.
Trauma and injuries
Some injuries to the foot and toenail can also cause your nail to fall off. Sometimes effects of injuries are immediate (in the case of an accident).
But other times an injury can lead to a bruised toenail which may cause your toenail to fall off after a few weeks. Common causes of toenail loss through injury include:
- dropping a heavy object on your toe
- stubbing your toe
- a bike or car accident
- contact sports
- repetitive trauma such as long-distance running, hiking or ballet
Learn more about bruised toenails and when you should seek treatment from a podiatrist.
What should I do if my nail fell off?
Treatment for a lost nail will depend on the cause. If you have an accident and part of your toenail is torn or has loosened from the nailbed, make an appointment to see a podiatrist. In the meantime you should:
- soak your toe in cold water for 20 minutes,
- if it’s painful using a clean pair of scissors or nail clippers, trim any loose or ragged parts and smooth them out to avoid them catching on socks, shoes or carpet
- cover the toenail with a non-stick bandage or dressing to keep it clean
- use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief if necessary.
DO NOT:
- pull the rest of the nail off, if it is partly detached
- cover the nail with plain gauze or an adhesive bandage as these will stick
pick at the remaining nail.
Can you prevent toenail loss?
Preventing toenail loss is possible by taking good care of your feet. You can do this by:
- keeping your feet dry
- disinfecting nail scissors and clippers after use
- wearing thongs in public showers and other dampcommunal areas
- keeping your nails trimmed
- changing your socks frequently
- wearing protective footwear, especially when working in the garden or on building sites
- making sure you wear well-fitting shoes.
Podiatrist Sydney
How long will it take for my toenail to grow back?
Depending on which toenail you lose, it can take anywhere from six months to two years for a nail to fully grow back.
When to see a podiatrist
A podiatrist can provide expert care for many foot issues, including toenails that are falling off. You should see a podiatrist if:
- you have signs of a fungal infection
you have signs of psoriasis under your toenail - an injury causes your toenail or part of it to come off, or lift from the nailbed
- you have signs of infection after sustaining an injury
- you have diabetes or another condition that interferes with healing.
References
Healthline, My toenail fell off, now what?, https://www.healthline.com/health/toenail-falling-off
Medical News Today, What to do if a toenail is falling off, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321124
WebMD, What to do when your toenail is falling off, https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/broken-toenail-falling-off