Noticed some white spots or discoloration on your toenails? You’re not alone. White marks on toenails can be a common concern, and they can show up for a variety of reasons.
This article explores the potential causes of white toenails and when you should see a doctor about them. While many people worry about toenail fungus, white marks can also be caused by other conditions.
We’ll take a closer look at fungal infections (including whether it’s a white marks on toenails fungus issue), as well as psoriasis, mineral deficiencies, and other potential causes of white spots on your toenails.
What causes white toenails?
The causes of white marks on toenails range from very common to rare. Here are some of the most frequent causes:
Toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Toenail fungus is a common cause of white spots on toenails. Onychomycosis can cause discoloration, thickening, and brittleness. If you don’t treat it, the infection can spread to other parts of your foot and even to other people.
Fungal infections can cause the following things to happen to toenails:
- White or yellow-brown spots appear.
- The nail gets thicker, crumbly, or ragged.
Toenail psoriasis
Psoriasis can affect the toenails, causing white spots and other changes. Between 80 and 90 percent of people with psoriasis end up developing nail psoriasis.
Psoriasis can cause the following things to happen to toenails:
- White spots
- Pits
- Discoloration
- Thickening of the nail
Mineral deficiencies
Not getting enough of certain minerals can affect your nails. For example, iron deficiency anemia and zinc deficiency can lead to white, thin, and brittle toenails.
If you think you may have a mineral deficiency, talk with your doctor about testing and treatment. Don’t treat a potential mineral deficiency on your own with over-the-counter supplements.
Other reasons for white marks on toenails
Sometimes, white spots or marks on toenails are not caused by fungus at all.
Keratin granulations
If you wear nail polish regularly, the white spots may be keratin granulations. Constant nail polish use, along with the use of nail polish remover, can dry out your nails, potentially leading to issues like dip powder nail fungus. This can cause white spots to form.
The best way to deal with keratin granulations is to give your nails a break from polish from time to time. If you don’t treat them, they can increase your chances of developing a toenail fungus. Rehydrating your nails can also help with dryness.
Trauma or injury
Sometimes, a minor injury to your nail can cause white spots to appear as the nail grows out.
Systemic diseases
Though it’s rare, some health conditions can cause nail changes, including white spots.
Preventing toenail fungus and maintaining healthy nails
You can prevent toenail fungus by following a few simple tips:
- Keep nails clean and dry. Wash your hands and feet regularly, especially after touching an infected nail. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Practice proper nail trimming. Trim nails straight across and smooth the edges. If you have any thickened areas, file them down. Always disinfect your nail clippers after each use.
- Choose breathable footwear and absorbent socks. Wear absorbent socks and change them throughout the day if your feet sweat. Choose shoes made of breathable materials. It’s also a good idea to discard old shoes or treat them with disinfectants or antifungal powders.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places. Wear footwear in pool areas and locker rooms.
- Be cautious about nail polish and artificial nails. If you’re prone to nail fungus, ditch the nail polish and artificial nails.
- Treat athlete’s foot promptly. Athlete’s foot can easily spread to the nails. If you have athlete’s foot, treat it with antifungal products right away.
When to seek treatment for white toenails
If you notice white marks on your toenails, don’t try to diagnose yourself. See a podiatrist to get a professional diagnosis. It’s important to find out what’s causing those white marks, whether it’s toenail fungus or something else.
Your doctor can determine the underlying cause and recommend the right treatment. While some cases might respond to self-care, others need professional help. Starting treatment early can prevent the problem from getting worse or spreading to other nails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills onychomycosis?
Onychomycosis, or nail fungus, is typically treated with antifungal medications. These can be topical (applied directly to the nail) or oral (taken by mouth). Oral medications generally offer a higher success rate but may have potential side effects, so consult with your doctor.
How do you treat onychomycosis yourself?
While some over-the-counter topical treatments are available, they are often less effective for onychomycosis than prescription options. Maintaining good foot hygiene, keeping nails trimmed, and filing down thickened areas can help, but seeing a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is recommended.
What vitamin deficiency causes nail fungus?
Nail fungus is primarily caused by fungal infections, not vitamin deficiencies. However, a healthy diet with sufficient vitamins and minerals can support overall nail health and potentially make nails less susceptible to infection. Deficiencies in biotin, iron, or zinc can sometimes affect nail appearance, but they won’t directly cause fungus.
What happens if onychomycosis is left untreated?
If left untreated, onychomycosis can worsen, causing the nail to thicken, discolor, and become brittle. It can also spread to other nails or even the skin around the nails. In severe cases, it can cause pain and difficulty walking. Treatment is generally recommended to prevent these complications.
Why have I got white lines on my toenails?
White lines on toenails can have various causes. While they can sometimes be an early sign of a fungal infection, they can also be caused by minor injuries to the nail, pressure from shoes, or certain medical conditions. If you’re concerned, it’s best to consult with a doctor or podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis.
Key Takeaways
White marks on your toenails can be caused by a number of things, including trauma, infection, or other medical conditions. It’s important to get a diagnosis from a doctor so you can begin the right treatment.
Prioritizing the health of your nails is important, and if you see something that concerns you, or if you have a nail issue that isn’t getting better, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor.