Seeing a change in the color of your toenail can be alarming. Many people worry that toenail discoloration signals something serious is going on with their health. But, in most cases, it’s simply a matter of either a bruise on toenail or fungus.
There are other reasons why your toenail might change color, too. This article will explain the differences between the most common causes, so you can figure out what’s going on with your toes.
Accurately identifying the cause is the first step toward treatment and peace of mind. And, if you’re not sure what’s causing the discoloration, or if things get worse, be sure to see a doctor.
Do I have a bruised toenail or a fungal infection?
Sometimes it’s hard to tell whether your toenail problem is a bruise or a fungus. Here’s a quick guide to telling the difference.
Fungal toenail infection (onychomycosis)
A fungal toenail infection, also known as onychomycosis, is caused by a fungus. These infections often turn the nail yellow or brown. You might also see:
- thickening
- brittleness
- dark debris under the nail
Fungal infections can be related to athlete’s foot, and they tend to spread through contact in warm, wet places, such as public pools, showers, and gyms.
Bruised toenail (subungual hematoma)
A bruised toenail, also known as a subungual hematoma, happens because of an injury, overuse, or irritation. The color is often darker than a fungal infection, ranging from red or purple to brown or black. It often happens because you stubbed your toe, wore shoes that were too tight, or put too much repetitive stress on your toe during exercise.
If the bruise is minor, it will probably heal on its own. But if it’s more severe, you may have to have a doctor drain the fluid that has built up under the nail.
Other possible causes of discolored toenails
It’s easy to assume that a discolored toenail is either a bruise or a fungus. But it’s important to know that other health issues can cause your toenails to change color.
For instance, discolored toenails can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition, such as:
- Psoriasis
- Cirrhosis
- Kidney disease
- A reaction to a medication
In rare cases, a dark spot or streak under your toenail can be a sign of subungual melanoma, a type of skin cancer. If you notice a dark spot or streak under your toenail, it’s important to see a doctor right away to get it checked out.
Diagnosis and treatment options
If you have a toenail that’s discolored, don’t try to diagnose the problem yourself. Get a professional opinion. A doctor can accurately determine the cause of the problem and recommend the right treatment.
Diagnosing the issue
Here are some methods a doctor might use to figure out what’s going on:
- Visual examination. The doctor will look closely at the nail.
- Nail clipping culture. The doctor may take a clipping of the nail to test for a fungal infection.
- Biopsy. If the doctor suspects melanoma, they may take a tissue sample for testing.
Treatment options
Treatment will depend on what’s causing the discoloration.
Fungal infections
To treat a fungal infection, a doctor might prescribe topical or oral antifungal medications, as well as help you identify gel nail fungus with pictures to understand symptoms, treatment and prevention.
- topical or oral antifungal medications
- laser therapy
Bruised toenails
If you have a bruised toenail, here’s what a doctor might recommend:
- rest, ice, and elevation for minor bruises
- draining the hematoma (blood blister) for more severe cases (this should only be done by a medical professional)
Other underlying conditions
If the discoloration is caused by something else, treatment will depend on the underlying condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills toenail fungus the fastest?
Unfortunately, there’s no magic bullet for toenail fungus. Prescription oral antifungals are generally considered the most effective, but they come with potential side effects. Topical treatments are safer but often take much longer to work. Laser therapy is another option, but its effectiveness can vary.
Why does my toe look like it has a bruise?
A dark discoloration under your toenail is often a subungual hematoma – basically, a bruise. It usually results from trauma, like stubbing your toe or wearing tight shoes. However, it’s crucial to rule out other causes, like fungal infections or even, in rare cases, melanoma.
What does stage 1 nail melanoma look like?
Stage 1 nail melanoma can be tricky to spot. Look for a dark streak or band on the nail, especially if it’s new, changing, or widening. Also, watch out for darkening of the skin around the nail (Hutchinson’s sign). Early detection is key, so see a dermatologist promptly if you notice anything suspicious.
What does a septic toe look like?
A septic toe is a serious infection. Signs include redness, swelling, throbbing pain, pus, and warmth around the toe. You might also experience fever and chills. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a septic toe, as it can quickly spread and become life-threatening.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
While not a proven cure, some people find that Vicks VapoRub helps with nail fungus, though some are exploring top homeopathic cures for nail fungus. Its active ingredients, like camphor and eucalyptus oil, have antifungal properties that may inhibit fungal growth. However, scientific evidence is limited, and it’s unlikely to eradicate the infection completely.
In Summary
If you think you might have a toenail infection or a toenail injury, you should talk to your doctor. It’s especially important to seek medical attention if you notice black spots under your nail that you can’t explain, or if home treatments aren’t helping, or if your symptoms are getting worse.
You can take steps to protect your toenails, including understanding how to protect your nails from nail fungus when using polish. Good foot hygiene, wearing shoes that fit well, and trimming your toenails straight across can help keep your feet healthy. You should also avoid going barefoot in public places, like locker rooms and public pools.
If you notice something wrong with your toenail, don’t wait. Early detection and treatment are key to getting better faster and avoiding complications.