Have you ever experienced the pain and agony of smashing your fingernail, only to see it turn black and bruised afterwards? It can be a disheartening sight, but fear not, there are steps you can take to help alleviate the pain, promote healing, and prevent further damage to your nail. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to do when you smash your fingernail and it turns black, so you can take care of your nail and get back to normal as quickly as possible.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
The first thing you’ll want to do when you smash your fingernail is to assess the extent of the damage. Carefully examine your nail to determine if there is any bleeding or signs of infection. If the nail is bleeding heavily or if you suspect an infection, seek medical attention immediately.
Step 2: Clean the Wound
If there is minimal bleeding and no signs of infection, gently clean the wound with warm water and mild soap. Be sure to remove any dirt or debris from the area to prevent infection. You can also apply an antiseptic ointment to help prevent bacteria from entering the wound.
Step 3: Ice the Nail
To help reduce swelling and alleviate pain, apply an ice pack or cold compress to the injured nail. Ice the nail for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, until the swelling subsides.
Step 4: Elevate the Hand
To further reduce swelling and promote healing, elevate your hand above your heart for periods of time throughout the day. This will help improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the injured nail.
Step 5: Protect the Nail
To prevent further damage to the injured nail, avoid activities that put pressure on the nail, such as typing or playing sports. You may also want to consider wearing a protective bandage or finger glove to cushion the nail and prevent further injury.
Step 6: Monitor the Healing Process
Keep a close eye on the injured nail as it heals. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, or discharge, seek medical attention immediately. Otherwise, continue to care for the nail as needed until it fully heals.
While smashing your fingernail can be a painful and unsightly experience, following these steps can help promote healing and prevent further damage to your nail. Remember to take care of yourself and give your nail the time and attention it needs to heal properly.
