Toenail Problems

Toenail problems extend beyond just fungus. There are an array of nail diseases and disorders that can cause changes in the color, shape, and/or texture of the nail. These changes may be directly related to an issue with your toenail or they can be an indicator of an underlying health problem. You should examine your toenails often, and discuss any changes with your physician. Here are a couple of things to pay close attention to when checking out your toenails:

Has the color changed?

• Do your nails seem to be getting thicker?
• Are your nails splitting often?
• Are your nails becoming brittle?

Here are a couple reasons your nail color can change:

• Green nails can indicate a bacterial or fungal infection.
• Pale white nails can be a sign of anemia or a zinc deficiency.
• White specs on the nail can be from minor injuries to the nail bed.
• Yellow nails can be the result of a respiratory condition.

Here are a couple reasons your nail texture and shape can change:

• Brittle nails that can split vertically and peel can be hereditary or due to using strong solvents, such as cleaning solutions.
• Over-thickening of the nail can be due to an internal disorder.
• Horizontal lines on the nail can be due to any interruption in the protein formation of the nail plate, such as trauma, illness or malnutrition.
• Concave nails with raised ridges can be due to iron deficiency.

It is best to have any unexplained changes in your nails examined by a physician.

Image by andy_5322. Spread Toes 1. (2006). Flickr.