Black toenails: Infection or somethingelse?

 

BY SUN REPORTER

For many people, toenails are an afterthought. You might give them a cursory glance when getting ready for bed or slip on a pair of sandals, but they do not usually warrant much attention except when they get too long or stub your toe.

However, Dr Masego Ndlovu says toenails can tell a lot about ones’ overall health. “ For example, black toenails are often caused by trauma to the nail, such as from running or kicking a ball.They can also be caused by severe conditions, such as melanoma,” she said. In an interview with SunHealth,Dr Ndlovu highlighted some potential causes of black toenails and how to avoid them. Fungal infection Toenails are susceptible to all sorts of infections and problems. One of the more common toenail problems is a fungal infection.

A fungal infection of the toenails is also called onychomycosis. This infection usually starts as a white or yellow spot on the nail. The nail may become discoloured, thickened, and brittle as the condition progresses. The nails may also separate from the nail bed.Fungal infections of the toenails are often caused by wearing tight shoes or walking barefoot in public places. To avoid a fungal infection of the toenails, keep the feet clean and dry. Avoid sharing towels, socks, and shoes, as it is a contagious infection.

Wearing socks and shoes that fit well will prevent a toenail fungal infection. If you think you have a toenail fungal infection, see your doctor for treatment. Melanoma Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can also occur in the nails.

The melanoma of the nail is also called subungual melanoma. This type of melanoma usually starts as a brown or black line under the nail.While melanoma is a serious type of cancer, it is rare. If you have a black line under your nail that does not go away, see your doctor for evaluation. Trauma One of the most common causes of black toenails is trauma. This can occur from running, kicking a ball, or dropping something on the toe. As a result, the nail may become bruised and discoloured.

Wearing too tight or ill-fitting shoes can also cause trauma to the toenails. Therefore, to avoid black toenails from trauma, wear well-fitting shoes. Most black toenails caused by trauma will eventually grow out, and the nail will return to its normal colour. Underlying medical conditions Some underlying medical conditions can cause black toenails. These include diabetes, anaemia, psoriasis, or heart diseases. If you have any of these conditions, it is important to see your doctor regularly.

Black toenails can also be a side effect of certain medications. If you take medication and develop black toenails, talk to your doctor about the potential side effects. Pigmentation In some cases, black toenails are caused by a change in pigmentation. Melanonychia is a condition in which the nails become darker. This is more common in people with darker skin. If you notice that your toenails are suddenly darker than usual, it is important to see your doctor for an evaluation.

Dr Ndlovu warned that while having a black toenail may not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to complications. “ If the toenail is left untreated, it can become infected. The infection can spread to other nails or even to the bone.The nails may come off completely, which can be extremely painful.