A Colorful Article on Toenail Health: 5 Toenail Discolorations and What They Mean
You clip them, but do you pay attention to them? Toenails can provide valuable clues about our overall foot health, and their color (along with other characteristics) can be indicators of various underlying conditions, ranging from fungal infections to vascular issues.
In this blog, My Chicago Foot Expert will explore the significance of toenail diversity and what it may reveal about your foot and ankle health.
Black Toenails
Black toenails are often caused by trauma, such as dropping a heavy object on your foot. However, they can also be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a blood clot under the nail (subungual hematoma). If you have a black toenail that is painful or does not improve over time, it’s important to see a podiatrist for evaluation.
Yellow Toenails
Yellow toenails can be a sign of a fungal infection like onychomycosis. This condition can cause the toenails to become thickened, discolored, and brittle. Other causes of yellow toenails may include psoriasis or certain medications.
Ridged Toenails
Ridged toenails (when the nails assume a bumpy, non-smooth appearance) can be caused by various factors, including aging, thyroid disease, nutrient deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, or other conditions such as malnutrition, diabetes, and severe infections.
Thick Toenails
The classic sign of aging feet, thick toenails, can also be a symptom of fungal infections, psoriasis, trauma, or poor circulation.
Other Toenail Colors and Factors
Other colors may also indicate hidden health issues. For example, white toenails can be a sign of anemia or liver disease, while blue toenails can be another sign of a vascular condition such as Raynaud’s Disease or Peripheral Artery Disease.
Note that there are other factors that can cause discoloration. Foot deformities, aging, genetics, arthritis (as it pertains to ingrown toenails), diabetes, foot hygiene, a weakened immune system, and certain medications can all play a role in the appearance of your nails. This is why it’s important to seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation.
Reach out to the tenured staff at My Chicago Foot Expert by calling (773) 561-8100 or by clicking here to book an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.
