Toenails are an essential part of our body structure meant to protect our toes and aid in their movement. However, some unusual toenail occurrences can cause pain and discomfort. One such occurrence is the growth of a new toenail under a healthy toenail. This can be alarming and confusing, especially if you don’t know why it’s happening. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why a new toenail would grow under a healthy toenail and what you can do about it.
Contents of Article
1. Injury or Trauma
Injuries to the nail bed can often lead to the growth of a new toenail under a healthy toenail. If you have injured your toe or experienced some form of trauma, such as dropping something heavy on your toe, it can cause damage to the nail bed, leading to the growth of a new toenail. This new nail could be malformed or grow abnormally; in some cases, it might even cause your old toenail to fall off.
2. Fungal Infections
Fungal infections commonly cause new toenail growth under a healthy toenail. The infection can cause the toenail to smell like cheese, discolored, thickened, and brittle, leading to the growth of a new nail underneath. Fungal infections are more common in people with diabetes or those who wear tight-fitting shoes for long periods.
3. Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the skin surrounding the nail bed, leading to pain and discomfort. In some cases, the toenail can grow under the healthy nail bed, leading to the growth of a new toenail. Ingrown toenails can be caused by a variety of factors, such as tight shoes, improper nail trimming, or an abnormal nail structure.
4. Genetic Factors
In some cases, a new toenail growth under a healthy toenail could be hereditary. If your parents or other family members have experienced unusual toenail growth patterns, you may be more susceptible to developing a similar condition. In this case, monitoring your toenail health and being vigilant for any unusual changes is essential.
5. Medications
Certain medications, such as chemotherapy or antibiotics, can affect the health of your toenails. These drugs can cause the toenails to become brittle, discolored, and weakened, leading to the growth of a new toenail. If you’re taking any prescribed medication and experience abnormal toenail growth, it’s essential to speak to your doctor to determine whether your medication is the culprit.
What should you do about it at home?
If you are experiencing new toenail growth under your healthy toenail, there are some steps you can take at home to help:
- Firstly, it’s important to keep your feet clean and dry.
- Make sure that you wear breathable footwear that fits properly, and change your socks frequently.
- Additionally, it is important to trim your toenails regularly, making sure not to cut them too short, as this can increase the risk of ingrown nails.
- Finally, if you suspect an infection or injury, speak with a doctor or podiatrist for further treatment options, such as oral antifungal medications or surgical removal of the affected nail.
When to visit a doctor?
By understanding the causes of new toenail growth and taking proper care of your feet, you can help to prevent future occurrences and keep your toenails healthy. If you experience any concerning symptoms or are concerned about the health of your toenails, speak with a doctor or podiatrist for further advice and treatment options. Remember that taking care of your feet is essential for overall well-being!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the growth of a new toenail under a healthy toenail can be due to several reasons, including injury, fungal infections, ingrown toenails, genetics, or medication. Toenail health is important, and if you notice any unusual changes, such as new toenail growth under a healthy toenail, it’s crucial to see a doctor immediately. With proper care and medical attention, you can prevent any further complications and maintain healthy toenails.