White toenails can be a cause for concern, especially for those who value their appearance. The discoloration can be a sign of an underlying condition that needs medical attention. In this article, we will explore the causes of white toenails, their symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention to help you understand the condition better.
Causes of White Toenails
White toenails can be caused by various factors, including fungal infections, psoriasis, trauma, nutritional deficiencies, and allergic reactions.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are the most common cause of white toenails. They occur when fungi invade the nail bed, causing it to become thickened, brittle, and discolored. The infection can be caused by various fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. It is prevalent in people who wear closed shoes for long periods, have sweaty feet, or use public showers and swimming pools.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, nails, and joints. It can cause the toenails to become thickened, yellow, or white. The condition occurs when the immune system attacks healthy skin cells, leading to inflammation, flaking, and scaling.
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Symptoms of White Toenails
White toenails can manifest in various ways, depending on the underlying cause. The most common symptoms include:
The toenails become white or yellowish, indicating an infection or an underlying health condition. The discoloration can spread to the entire nail, making it thickened, brittle, and deformed.
Pain
White toenails can be painful, especially when the infection is severe. The pain can be a sign of inflammation, nerve damage, or tissue damage.
Brittle Nails
White toenails can become brittle, fragmented, and prone to breakage. The nails may lose their natural shine and become dull.
Thickened Nails
White toenails can become thickened, leading to discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes. The thickening can be a sign of an infection or a chronic condition such as psoriasis.
Foul Odor
White toenails can produce a foul odor, indicating a bacterial or fungal infection. The odor can be unpleasant and embarrassing, affecting the person’s self-esteem.
Diagnosis of White Toenails
To diagnose white toenails, a doctor will perform a physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. The examination may involve checking for signs of infection, inflammation, or trauma. The doctor may also ask about the person’s medical history, lifestyle habits, and symptoms.
Laboratory tests may include a nail culture, which involves taking a sample of the nail and growing it in a lab to identify the type of fungi or bacteria causing the infection. The doctor may also perform blood tests to check for underlying health conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders.
Imaging studies such as X-rays or ultrasound may be necessary to examine the bones, joints, and soft tissues surrounding the toenail. These tests can help identify any abnormalities that may be causing the discoloration or pain.
The treatment of white toenails depends on the underlying cause. The most common treatment options include antifungal medications, topical creams or ointments, oral medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes.
Antifungal Medications
Antifungal medications are the most effective treatment for fungal infections that cause white toenails. They can be taken orally or applied topically to the affected area. The medication works by killing the fungi responsible for the infection. It is essential to complete the entire course of medication, even if the symptoms disappear before the end of the treatment.
Topical Creams or Ointments
Topical creams or ointments are used to treat mild fungal infections. They are applied directly to the affected area and can take several months to clear the infection.
Oral Medications
Oral medications are prescribed for severe fungal infections that do not respond to topical treatments. They are taken daily for several months and can cause side effects such as liver damage.
Surgery
Surgery is a last resort option for white toenails caused by trauma or other underlying conditions. The surgery involves removing the affected toenail under local anesthesia.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining good foot hygiene, proper nail care, wearing breathable shoes and socks, avoiding trauma, and eating a balanced diet can help prevent white toenails.
Prevention of White Toenails
Preventing white toenails involves taking measures to reduce the risk of developing fungal infections, trauma, and other underlying conditions. Some of the preventive measures include:
Good Foot Hygiene
Maintaining good foot hygiene involves washing the feet daily with soap and water, drying them thoroughly, and applying a moisturizer to prevent dryness.
Proper nail care involves cutting the nails straight across, avoiding cutting them too short, and using clean nail clippers. It is also essential to avoid biting the nails and picking at the cuticles.
