Detachment of the toenail on the little toe
Detachment of the toenail, particularly the little toe nail, may be caused by malnutrition, trauma, paronychia, or other reasons, and timely medical treatment at a hospital is necessary. Specific causes are as follows:
1. Malnutrition
This may result from deficiencies in nutrients such as B vitamins and calcium, leading to impaired metabolism. As a result, poor growth and development of the toenails may occur, potentially causing nail detachment. Treatment may include medications such as zinc gluconate granules or calcium carbonate with vitamin D3 tablets, taken under medical guidance.
2. Trauma
The toenail may be subjected to external forces such as compression or impact, which can cause bleeding under the nail bed, leading to separation of the nail from the nail bed and subsequent shedding. In such cases, medications like ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or penicillin V potassium tablets may be taken as directed by a physician.
3. Paronychia
This is typically a bacterial infection resulting from injury to the nail fold, characterized by redness, swelling, and pain around the toenail. Treatment may involve topical application of fusidic acid cream or clotrimazole cream, as directed by a doctor.
In addition to the above causes, nail detachment may also result from conditions such as psoriasis, onychomycosis, or athlete's foot. It is advisable to wear loose, comfortable footwear and avoid prolonged walking.