iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersDermatologydiscoloured nail

I hurt my fingernail, it has turned black and paining very badly. Please help.

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I recently (a few hours ago), had my finger hurt by a pan really hard. A part of my nail has turned black and the remaining part is a healthy pink. I have a throbbing pain. Will it heal on its own (growing the fingernail out) or will the nail turn dead and fall off?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

If your fingernail is totally black, it will fall off automatically within one or two months. Since it is half black and is paining severely, it is advisable to visit a surgeon. A surgeon will assess the condition and will do the needful.

The blackness is due to necrosis and can lead to infection if not treated on time. There are chances of bone involvement which can lead to complications.

Meanwhile, you can start taking Amoxycillin-Clavulanic acid 625 mg twice daily for 10 days to prevent the spread of infection.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At October 13, 2014
Reviewed AtJune 20, 2024

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Listen to related tracks in our music library

Read answers about:

nail injurydiscoloured nail

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.