Your nails are likely red underneath due to splinter hemorrhages, which are tiny lines of blood under the nail.
What are Splinter Hemorrhages?
Splinter hemorrhages appear as small, red or brown streaks beneath the nail. They are the result of damaged blood vessels located under the nail.
How Do They Occur?
- Injury: The most common cause of splinter hemorrhages is injury to the nail. This can include minor trauma like hitting your finger or catching your nail.
- Damaged Blood Vessels: When the small blood vessels under your nail are damaged, blood leaks out and appears as a thin line.
When to Worry
A few splinter hemorrhages under one nail are usually nothing to worry about and are typically a result of minor injuries. However, if you experience any of the following, you should consult a doctor:
- Many splinter hemorrhages across multiple nails.
- Pain or swelling around the nails.
- Other symptoms, such as fever or feeling unwell.
Common Causes:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Minor Injury | Hitting or catching your nail. |
| Trauma | Any event that causes impact to the nail area. |
| Underlying Issue | Rarely, they may be associated with other medical conditions. |
What To Do
- Monitor: Usually, splinter hemorrhages will disappear over time as your nail grows out.
- Avoid Injury: Be careful with your hands to prevent further injury.
- Seek Medical Advice: If you're concerned or experience additional symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.
In most cases, red streaks under your nails are harmless splinter hemorrhages, likely caused by a minor injury.
