Assessing the Possibility of Infection in My Subungal Hematoma
Hello! I’m a 30-year-old male, and I've previously experienced a subungal hematoma on one of my toes, which took a few months to completely heal. However, this current one has been subject to repeated trauma and continues to hinder the healing process. Could it possibly be infected? There’s no pain associated with it, which is somewhat relieving. Given that I am on my feet throughout the day, I find it challenging to keep weight off the affected toe for extended periods. As a runner, I’ve noticed that there’s no discomfort during my runs either. I've observed that the left side of the nail may be a bit raised. I’m seeking guidance on the best course of action from here. Initially, I hoped it would resolve naturally, similar to my prior experience. I first became aware of this issue about four months ago after an abrupt landing while playing pickleball. I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights you can offer!
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 12:01:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are dealing with a persistent subungal hematoma, and it's understandable to be concerned about possible infection or prolonged healing, especially given your active lifestyle as a runner. While the absence of pain is reassuring, it's important to monitor changes closely.
Explanation
A subungal hematoma occurs when blood collects under the nail, often due to injury. In some cases, this can lead to complications such as infection, especially if the nail is raised or damaged. The fact that you’ve had prior hematomas and are now experiencing unusual changes like a raised section could suggest ongoing irritation or the need for intervention.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the hematoma for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge. If any of these develop, it may indicate that the area has become infected.
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Limit Trauma: Try to avoid additional trauma to the toe by wearing protective footwear (e.g., shoes with a wide toe box or forefoot padding) whenever possible, especially when engaging in activities that may cause stress to the affected area.
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Consider Compression: If you can comfortably keep the affected toe securely wrapped or cushioned, this may prevent additional movement and promote healing.
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Evaluate Nail Growth: As you mentioned the nail may be raised, observe if this changes as it grows out. If the nail appears to be growing in an abnormal direction or is causing discomfort, this may require evaluation.
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Rest & Elevate: Incorporate rest periods to reduce the time spent on your feet when you can. Elevating your foot can help reduce swelling and improve blood circulation to the area.
If symptoms change or persist, or if you notice changes in the condition of the nail or surrounding skin, further examination might be warranted. It’s always best to err on the side of caution with injuries that haven't healed as expected.
Let me know if you have any additional questions or need further details!
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