Bruised nails can cause discomfort and pain. They happen when blood pools under the nail bed, which leads to pressure building up, leading to discoloration to your nails.

It can be a result of trauma to the finger, a medical condition, or due to low iron levels in your blood.

In this article, we look at some of the reasons behind your bruised nails, how to prevent them, and what remedies you can try at home to help them heal faster.

What causes bruised nails?

There are different reasons why your nails might become bruised. These include:.

Trauma to the Fingers

The most common cause of bruised nails is trauma to the fingers. This trauma can lead to pressure on the nail bed, which causes discoloration and pain.

You might have accidentally hit your fingers with a hammer, slammed them against a door or car door, or got them caught in a car door or a drawer.

If the bruise is mild, then the blood will absorb on its own and won’t need medical attention. But if the bruise is serious enough to hurt when you touch the skin around it, you should see your doctor.

Bleeding Issues

If you have a vitamin K deficiency, hemophilia, or a blood clotting disorder, then you might experience bruising on your nails. People who take blood thinners or aspirin may also experience bruising because they can make it harder for blood to clot.

Medical conditions

Many medical conditions can also cause bruising. These conditions include liver disease, diabetes, anemia, congestive heart disease, and kidney failure.

Fever

Another cause of nail bruising is fever. When the body is fighting off an infection, the immune system sends more blood to the area to help fight the infection. This can cause a bruise to form on the nail bed.

Fungal Infection

A fungal infection can cause the nail bed to become swollen and discolored. When this happens, you may notice that your nails are turning yellow or brown and that they are thick and brittle.

How to Prevent Bruised Nails

There are a few things you can do to help prevent bruised nails. These include:.

Keeping your Nails Trimmed

If your nails are too long, they are more likely to break or get caught on things. Keeping them short can help prevent them from getting injured. You should also file them regularly to prevent any rough edges from catching on anything.

Wearing the Right Shoes

Wearing shoes that fit well can also help prevent bruised nails. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause your toes to rub against the inside of your shoe. This can lead to bruises or blisters on your toenails.

Wearing Protective Gear

If you are working with your hands often, it is a good idea to wear protective gear. This might include gloves, goggles, or other protective equipment that can help keep your fingers safe from harm.

Keeping a Healthy Diet

Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which can contribute to nail bruising. Therefore, it is essential to eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of iron-rich foods like leafy greens, fortified cereals, and red meats.

Remedies for Bruised Nails

There are a few things you can do at home to help your bruised nails feel better. These remedies include:.

Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress will help relieve any pain and reduce the swelling. You can use ice or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel. Hold it against the nail for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day.

Epsom Salt Soak

Soaking your nails in warm water mixed with Epsom salt helps reduce the swelling and can help soothe the pain. Add two tablespoons of Epsom salt to a bowl of warm water and soak your nails for 15-20 minutes a few times a day.

Essential Oils

Some essential oils have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and help soothe the pain. Mix a few drops of Lavender or Tea Tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Then massage the oil mixture into the affected area.

Final Thoughts

Bruised nails can be painful and uncomfortable, but with proper care, they will heal in a few weeks. If the discoloration or pain is severe, then contact your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.