The lifting of your big toenails, also known as onycholysis, can be attributed to several potential causes ranging from external factors to underlying health conditions.
Here's a breakdown of the common reasons:
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Trauma or Injury: This is one of the most frequent causes. Stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, or repetitive minor injuries (like those experienced by runners) can separate the nail from the nail bed.
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Improper Nail Care: Keeping your toenails excessively long increases the risk of them catching on things and lifting. Similarly, aggressive cleaning under the nails can damage the nail bed.
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Footwear Issues: Shoes that are too tight or put excessive pressure on your toes can contribute to nail lifting.
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Fungal Infections (Onychomycosis): A fungal infection can cause the nail to thicken, become discolored, and eventually detach from the nail bed. This is a common cause of nail problems.
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Certain Health Conditions: Some medical conditions, such as psoriasis, thyroid problems, and circulatory issues, can affect the health of your nails and lead to onycholysis.
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Exposure to Chemicals: Frequent exposure to harsh chemicals, such as those found in some nail polishes, removers, or cleaning products, can damage the nail and cause it to lift.
Here's a table summarizing potential causes:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Trauma/Injury | Stubbing toe, dropping objects, repetitive stress |
| Improper Nail Care | Overly long nails, aggressive cleaning |
| Footwear | Tight shoes, excessive pressure |
| Fungal Infections | Onychomycosis, leading to thickening and detachment |
| Health Conditions | Psoriasis, thyroid issues, circulatory problems |
| Chemical Exposure | Nail polish, removers, cleaning products |
What to do if your toenail is lifting:
- Assess the Severity: If only a small portion of the nail is lifted and there's no pain or signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus), you might be able to manage it at home.
- Keep it Clean and Dry: Regularly wash the affected area with soap and water. Dry thoroughly.
- Trim the Loose Nail: Carefully trim away the lifted portion of the nail to prevent it from catching on things and causing further injury. Use clean nail clippers.
- Avoid Irritants: Limit exposure to harsh chemicals and wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes.
- Seek Medical Advice: If the lifting is extensive, painful, or shows signs of infection, consult a doctor or podiatrist. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment, which might include antifungal medications, antibiotics, or even nail removal in severe cases.
The treatment for a lifting toenail depends entirely on the underlying cause. If it's due to trauma, it will likely heal on its own with proper care as a new nail grows in. Fungal infections require antifungal treatment, and underlying health conditions need to be addressed accordingly.
