If your toenail has died and is only holding on by the edges - should you have nail removed or try to hold it in place while grows back?
It's generally recommended to consult a doctor or podiatrist if your toenail has died and is only partially attached. They can assess the condition of your nail and determine the best course of treatment. Based on their assessment, they might suggest one of the following options:
1. Conservative Treatment: If there's still some nail attached and it's not causing significant discomfort, your doctor may recommend conservative treatment. This might involve trimming the dead nail away, cleaning the area, and applying antibiotic ointment. The nail may eventually grow back over the affected area.
2. Nail Removal: If the dead nail is causing pain, infection, or significantly restricting nail growth, your doctor may recommend removing it. This can involve using a local anesthetic to numb the area before gently removing the nail. This allows the underlying nail bed to heal and a new nail to eventually regrow.
The choice between trying to hold the nail in place and removing it depends on various factors, including the extent of the nail damage, the presence of infection, and the patient's overall health. Ultimately, it's best to consult a medical professional for personalized advice based on your specific situation.