Splinter haemorrhages
Splinter hemorrhages or fingernail hemorrhages are tiny areas of bleeding which develop under the toenails or fingernails. They appear as thin red lines of blood under the nails. They extend in the direction of the growth of the nail and look like narrow splinters below the nail. These hemorrhages may result due to small blood clots that affect the capillaries beneath the nails. Splinter hemorrhages may arise as a result of infection in the valves of the heart and are caused because of the damage resulting from swelling of the blood vessels. There is no discomfort and pain that accompanies splinter hemorrhages. The only sign indicative of a splinter hemorrhage is the appearance of the red stain-like area beneath the nail plate.
Splinter Causes
Splinter hemorrhages may sometimes be caused due to a condition called Raynaud’s disease. In this case, the may be some amount of pain that is experienced. They may also be caused due to some kind of physical impact to the nail plate. This kind of trauma to the fingernails and toenails is usually caused during activities such as hockey, jogging or tennis. Activities that are not so vigorous such as golf or playing with a Frisbee can also damage the capillaries beneath the nails. In some cases, splinter hemorrhages could be an underlying factor in more serious conditions. Onychomycosis, which is a fungal infection of the nails, can also lead to splinter hemorrhages. Psoriasis can also lead to the development of hemorrhages in the nails. Certain medications may also contribute to the occurrence of splinter hemorrhages. In rare cases, heart valve diseases may also result in hemorrhages.
Treatment will be determined by the cause of the splinter hemorrhages. Treating the underlying condition will gradually reduce the hemorrhages also. Otherwise, the only option is to allow the nail to grow out. The hemorrhage occurs beneath the nail bed, and as such it will grow out along with the nail in some time. This period will take a few months, after which the splinter hemorrhages will disappear completely. If the cause of the splinter hemorrhages is the effect of certain medication, then you will have to talk to your doctor who will probably advise that the medication must be discontinued immediately. If there is psoriasis or fungal infection involved, then the appropriate treatment must be administered. This will cause the bleeding to reduce and the clots will also go away. If the injury has resulted due to activities which may be sports related, then it is advisable to trim your nails short as this will help in preventing splinter hemorrhages.
