Toenail discoloration isn’t something anyone wants to see. When toenails change color, it’s a sign that something isn’t quite right. Chromonychia, the medical term for discolored nails, comes in many shades, from white and yellow to green and black.
This article is all about toenail discoloration that shows up as brown. We’ll explore the causes, the symptoms, and how to prevent brown toenail discoloration from happening in the first place.
It is important to see a podiatrist or other healthcare professional if you notice changes in your toenails. Accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential for resolving any toenail issues.
What causes brown toenails?
There are a few reasons why your toenails might turn brown.
Nail fungus
A fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) is a common cause of toenail discoloration. It’s gross, but it happens. When toenails are infected, they can turn yellow, reddish-brown, green, or even black. Brown is a pretty common color for a fungal toenail.
Fungal organisms, such as dermatophytes, yeasts, bacteria, and molds, can get into the nail bed and change the way the toenail looks. Understanding whether toenail fungus is acidic or alkaline can also provide insights.
Trauma and injury
If you stub your toe or drop something heavy on it, you may end up with a subungual hematoma. That’s just a fancy term for blood that has pooled under your toenail.
The blood can look red or purple at first, but it turns brown as it dries.
Other causes
Sometimes, brown toenails can be caused by improper footwear, certain health conditions (psoriasis or diabetes), nail polish, or certain medications.
Tight shoes, for example, can cut off your circulation, leading to bruising and discoloration.
Recognizing the Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Attention
If you have nail fungus, your toenails may be thick, discolored, brittle, crumbly, ragged, or misshapen. The nail might separate from the nail bed, and you might notice a foul odor. For more advanced cases, consider exploring nail fungus laser treatment.
See a doctor if the discoloration is accompanied by pain, swelling, or drainage. It’s also important to get medical attention if the discoloration spreads or if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system, as these can increase the risk of serious complications.
A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the cause of the discoloration and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
Prevention and care for healthy toenails
To keep your toenails healthy and avoid discoloration, here are some steps you can take:
Preventing nail fungus
- Keep your toenails clean and dry.
- Wash your hands and feet regularly, and dry them thoroughly after washing.
- Wear absorbent socks and breathable shoes to keep moisture away from your feet.
- Use an antifungal foot powder, especially if you’re prone to sweaty feet.
Proper nail care
- Trim your toenails straight across, smooth the edges, and file down any thickened areas.
- Disinfect your nail clippers after each use to prevent the spread of infection.
- Avoid sharing nail clippers or files with others.
Lifestyle choices for nail health
- Avoid wearing nail polish or artificial nails for extended periods, as they can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for fungus.
- Treat athlete’s foot promptly to prevent it from spreading to your toenails.
- Wear footwear in public areas like pools and locker rooms to protect your feet from fungal infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean when your toenails turn brown?
Brown toenails can indicate several issues, the most common being a fungal infection. Other possibilities include trauma to the nail (leading to bleeding underneath), certain medications, psoriasis, or even just staining from dark-colored nail polish. It’s best to consult a doctor to determine the exact cause.
How do you get rid of brown stains on toenails?
If the brown discoloration is from a fungal infection, antifungal medications (topical or oral) are usually necessary. For stains from nail polish, gently buffing the nail surface and using a nail-whitening product may help. If the cause is trauma, the discoloration will usually fade as the nail grows out.
What does Vicks VapoRub do for toenails?
Some people use Vicks VapoRub as a home remedy for toenail fungus, and anecdotal evidence suggests it might help in mild cases. Another popular DIY method involves lemon juice for nail fungus treatment. The camphor and eucalyptus oil in Vicks may have some antifungal properties, but it’s not a proven treatment and may not be effective for severe infections. Always consult a doctor for appropriate treatment.
What deficiency causes brown toenails?
While nutritional deficiencies aren’t a primary cause, certain deficiencies, like vitamin B12, can contribute to nail changes, including discoloration. However, brown toenails are more likely due to infection or trauma than a vitamin deficiency. A doctor can perform tests to check for any underlying deficiencies.
Can you scrape out toenail fungus?
Scraping the surface of the nail might remove some debris and potentially reduce the amount of fungus, but it won’t eliminate the infection. Toenail fungus often resides deep within the nail bed, making it difficult to reach with scraping alone. It’s crucial to seek professional medical advice and treatment for effective management.
To conclude
It’s important to find out what’s causing your toenail to turn brown. While the most common causes are nail fungus and injuries, there could be other reasons for the discoloration.
You can often prevent discoloration by keeping your feet clean and taking good care of your toenails.
If you notice that your toenail is turning brown, it’s best to talk with a podiatrist or other healthcare provider. They can figure out exactly what’s going on and help you get the right treatment so you can keep your toenails healthy.