When toenails turn yellow, a fungus is usually to blame. This type of fungal infection is so common that you might not even need to see a doctor for treatment. Try an over-the-counter antifungal cream. If your nail is yellow and thick, gently file down the surface so that the drug can reach deeper layers.
Fungal infection
One of the most common causes of yellow toenails is a fungal infection of the nails. They are more common in men. You can get these infections from contact with fungi in the environment, often from public spaces where people go barefoot, like gym locker rooms and pools.
Applying a small amount of melted coconut oil can help heal thick yellow toenails. You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal nail creams and ointments. Be sure to clip and clean your nails before use to make sure the creams reach deeper layers. Laser therapy can be used to treat a fungal toenail infection.
Yellowing of the nail can indicate a fungal infection of the nail, more commonly seen in toenails than fingernails. The discoloration becomes worse with tight-fitting shoes or trauma to the nail plates and can be associated with athlete's foot, as well. The most common fungal infection is from the Trichophyton family.
Vitamin E deficiency may lead to yellow-colored nails. So can many other vitamin deficiencies or conditions. If you have yellow nails, see your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Yellow nail syndrome is a rare nail disorder.
For most people, the cause will be either fungal infection or overuse of nail polish. However, for some people, it could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Unless the cause is excessive nail polish use, people with yellow nails should speak to a doctor.
Other medical issues – In addition to diabetes, medical issues like tuberculosis (lung infection), bronchiectasis (damaged airways), jaundice (liver disease), psoriasis (skin condition causing scaly patches), and thyroid problems may also cause yellow nails.
Typically, a diabetic's toenails might turn yellow due to the breakdown of sugar. Alternatively, toenails that have a yellow tint could be caused by a toenail infection. If you are someone that is living with diabetes, it is suggested that you consider contacting a podiatrist for more information.
You should see a healthcare provider any time you have yellow toenails. Even if they're only caused by a fungal infection, yellow toenails don't typically get better on their own. In fact, your symptoms may get worse.
If they are treated properly, fungal toenail infections typically take several months of treatment to heal. Since the healing properties of fungal nail treatments work as your nail grows, the speed at which your nails grow makes a difference. In general, it takes around 3-6 months to see results.
Toothpaste: Using a peroxide-containing toothpaste, gently brush away yellow stains with a toothbrush. Hydrogen Peroxide: Soak nails in a solution of 4 parts water, 1 part hydrogen peroxide for 10 minutes. Make sure you heavily moisturize once you are finished to ensure optimal cuticle and nail health.
You can use your regular toothpaste for this. Apply a thin layer of the paste to your nails and leave it on for about 10 minutes. Grab a nail brush or a toothbrush and gently scrub your nail beds. Doing so will polish your nails and turn them whiter and brighter.
A healthy toenail is a shade of pale pink, much like your fingernail. Any yellowing or tinges of black color means something is not right. For example, if your toenails become yellow, you probably have a fungal infection. Yellowing can also be the result of smoking or a side effect of diabetes or a liver condition.
Tingling, burning, or pain in your feet. Loss of sense of touch or ability to feel heat or cold very well. A change in the shape of your feet over time. Loss of hair on your toes, feet, and lower legs.
Terry's nails is a type of nail discoloration. The nailbeds look “washed out,” except for a thin reddish-brown strip near the tip. Often, Terry's nails is a symptom of a chronic condition, such as liver failure or diabetes.
A common cause for yellow toenails is toenail fungus, however, it may be indicative of other conditions such as diabetes, psoriasis, yellow nail syndrome, lymphedema, lung problems, or jaundice.
Very pale nails
Healthy nails are generally pink. Very pale nails may indicate illnesses, such as anemia, congestive heart failure or liver disease.
The characteristic finding associated with yellow nail syndrome is the development of yellow, thickened, and excessively curved nails with almost complete stoppage of nail growth. Loss of the strip of hardened skin at the base and sides of a fingernail (cuticles) may also occur.
"White/yellow/greenish discolouration and thickening at the end of the nail spreads gradually to involve the whole nail which may be thick and brittle," said Practical Diabetes. It added: "The distorted nail can become sharp or break off, and can dig into neighbouring toes."
Yes. But toenail fungus usually doesn't spread beyond your toe. Some dermatophyte fungi spread easily to your skin. (Your skin and scalp also contain keratin.)
Antifungal medicines can kill a fungus. Or they may stop it from multiplying or growing. There are several classes of antifungal medications and different types of medicines. Your healthcare provider will select the best prescription medicine.
"It helps your cuticles, keeps your hands and nails hydrated, and works better than callus removal if you put it on your feet and wear socks overnight," says Nguyen. "The best part is that it's affordable and probably already in your medicine cabinet!" she adds.