Toenail Discoloration: Possible Causes, Treatments & Prevention
Toenail Discoloration: Possible Causes, Treatments & Prevention Toenail discoloration is
How to Fix Yellow Toenails: Causes and Best Treatments
Yellow toenails can be more than just a cosmetic issue. They are a common sign of fungal nail infections, but discoloration can also be caused by underlying health issues, including diabetes, and nail staining. The most common cause is onychomycosis, a fungal infection that also causes thickening of the nail and brittleness.
If you’re looking for fast, effective solutions, this helpful guide covers the causes of discolored yellow toenails, the best treatment options, and tips to help you keep your toenails healthy.
Why Are My Toenails Yellow?
If you’ve noticed that your toenails look yellow, it’s natural to wonder why. Discolored toenails are common. This is not always a worrying sign, but often, it’s linked to nail infections. The most common cause of yellow toenails is onychomycosis, a fungal infection.
Other causes include staining, which is common in people who wear nail polish on their toes, and underlying health problems, such as psoriasis and diabetes.
Possible Causes for Yellow Toenails
There are many possible causes of yellow toenails, including:
1. Onychomycosis
Onychomycosis is the leading cause of discolored, yellow toenails. This is a fungal infection, which usually originates at the edge of the nail. Symptoms include:
- Yellow, brown or white discoloration
- Increased brittleness
- Thick toenails
In the most severe cases, the toenail can also lift from the nailbed, which can be very painful.
2. Underlying health issues
Yellow nails can be a side effect or complication of several other conditions and illnesses. Examples include:
- Liver disease
- Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland)
- Psoriasis
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
3. Staining
Lifestyle factors and wearing nail polish can increase the risk of nail staining. If you’re a smoker, you may be more prone to yellow fingernails and toenails. If you wear nail polish frequently or for long periods, especially dark colors, you may find your nails look yellow when you remove your nail varnish.
4. Trauma
Trauma can cause toenail discoloration. If you’ve injured your toe, you play sports regularly, or you’ve been wearing tight, uncomfortable shoes, your toenails may look discolored.
How to Treat Thick Yellow Toenails
There are various treatment options for yellow, thick toenails. The first step to successful treatment is finding the root cause. If you have yellow toenails due to underlying health issues, medical professionals will treat the primary issue first. If you have a fungal nail infection, treatment will focus on getting rid of the infection as quickly and effectively as possible.
The table below outlines common treatment options for yellow toenails:
| Cause | Treatment options/steps |
|---|---|
| Fungal nail infection | Onychomycosis treatment involves using topical or oral antifungal medication. Onychomycosis medication is highly effective but it can take several weeks or months to work. During treatment, it’s important to maintain good foot hygiene and trim your nails regularly. |
| Trauma and injuries | Discoloration caused by bruising to the toenails often fades with time, with no need for medical treatment. |
| Underlying health issues | Treatment for the root cause is the priority. Once the primary health issue has been treated, targeted solutions for discolored toenails may be recommended, including medication and improved foot hygiene. |
| LStaining | Solutions include giving up smoking and using a clear base coat before applying colored nail polish. Support for quitting smoking is available from your doctor, pharmacist or stop-smoking charities. |
Important: Always confirm fungus with a doctor if OTC treatments fail.
When to See a Doctor
Home remedies, regular nail trimming, good foot hygiene, and over-the-counter medications can be effective for yellow toenails, but in some cases, it’s advisable to see a doctor. If any of the following circumstances apply to you, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment:
- Your symptoms are getting worse
If you notice that your toenail discoloration has become more severe and pronounced, the discoloration has changed color or spread, or you’ve developed new symptoms, such as pain, see your doctor.
- Home remedies haven’t worked
If you’ve tried home remedies for yellow toenails, and they haven’t worked, seek medical advice. You may have an infection or your toenail discoloration may be linked to a different health issue.
- You’re in pain
If you experience pain in your toes or around your toenails, see a doctor.
- You’re having trouble walking
If you’re struggling to walk or you find it painful to walk or get around, it’s wise to get checked out.
- You have other symptoms of an infection
If you have other symptoms of an infection in addition to discolored toenails, seek expert advice. Examples include swelling, increased warmth around your toenails, thick nails, and debris beneath the toenails.
- You have underlying health issues
If you’ve been diagnosed with a health condition and you notice new symptoms, such as thick or yellow toenails, speak to your doctor. Certain conditions, such as diabetes, increase the risk of foot problems.
How to Prevent Yellow Nails.
Prevention is one of the best forms of treatment. To avoid getting yellow nails, the key is to:
- Use clear base coat before colored polish
- Disinfect nail tools after each use
- Keep feet dry and clean
- Rotate shoes to prevent moisture buildup
- Don’t share socks or nail tools
Tip: A healthy lifestyle is key to preventing any kind of nail issue.
Top Tips for Fixing Yellow Toenails
Yellow toenails can be unsightly, but they may also be a sign of an infection or underlying health issues. Knowing how to fix yellow toenails can save you time, stress and discomfort.
If your toenails are yellow or discolored, it’s important to take swift action. Explore Swissker’s heavy-duty nail clippers and targeted antifungal stick, and maintain good foot hygiene at home. If your symptoms persist or get worse, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
FAQs
Are yellow toenails always caused by fungus?
Though it’s the most common cause, it’s not always the case. Yellow nails can be caused by polish, smoking, or medical conditions like psoriasis.
Can I treat yellow nails at home?
Normally, yes. Antifungal creams, such as the Swissker Antifungal Stick, are extremely effective. You can also try vinegar soaks and/or lemon juice.
Remember that the best treatment is the one that starts early.
Do yellow nails mean poor hygiene?
Not necessarily. Even clean nails can turn yellow due to health conditions, aging, and even injuries.
How fast can I fix yellow toenails?
It depends on the underlying reason as to why they are yellow. Mild stains may clear in a week if you commit to a constant remedy application; fungal infections may take longer.
Adrian Fuentes
Lead Product Engineer
With a strong background in engineering and a passion for creating user-focused solutions, Adrian leads the Swissker development team with precision and innovation. Over the past decade, he has helped design and refine tools that combine cutting-edge technology with everyday practicality. Adrian is dedicated to improving quality of life through well-engineered, safe, and effective solutions, backed by rigorous research and a deep understanding of user needs. When not in the lab, he stays current with emerging trends in personal care, wellness, and health-tech innovation to ensure every product meets the highest standards.
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