Dermatophytes
In most cases, yellow toenails are the result of toenail fungus. Fungal infections in the nails are typically caused by personal habits such as wearing shoes made of non-breathable materials that allow sweat to mix with bacteria. The best way to return your toenails to their natural color will depend on the cause of the discoloration. If your nails are stained from polish, you may have to wait until the nail grows out to restore the natural color. Other, rare causes of discolored nails include the yellow nail syndrome, an inherited condition that results in slow-growing, yellowing, discolored nails and is associated with lymphedema (swelling of tissues due to the accumulation of fluid) and lung diseases. Picture of Fungal Nail Infection Nails that are infected with a fungus may become discolored (yellowish-brown or opaque), thick and brittle, and may separate from...learn more ». Picture of Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection) The most common fungus infection of the nails is onychomycosis. The Causes of Discolored Toenails. Discolored toe nails may be white, yellow, brown, green, or even black and all of these discolorations may be caused by a nail fungus infection of varying stages. Discolored Toenails. Having one or more discolored toenails is often a clear indicator that something is awry and in the vast majority of cases, ordinary toenail fungus is the primary culprit at work. And although a discolored toenail can strike anyone at any time, the elderly are more prone to the unsightly condition Fungi are capable of producing many colors, and the species that invade nails and cause a discolored toenail are no exception. In laboratory culture, the so-called dermatophytes are predominantly yellow, mahogany brown, or reddish, while saprophytic fungi that invade nails are often green, black or brown, or colorless. If you notice a discolored toenail, it's best to take care of it right away. See your doctor to confirm that treatment for fungus is a sensible approach, and begin treatment immediately. A fungal nail infection is easier to treat in its early stages. In an advanced fungal nail infection, a discolored toenail is a minor symptom compared to the thick flaky distorted appearance of the nail and the discomfort of fungal spread to the skin of the toes. If you notice a discolored toenail, it's best to take care of it right away. See your doctor to confirm that treatment for fungus is a sensible approach, and begin treatment immediately. A fungal nail infection is easier to treat in its early stages. Causes of White Spots on Toenails. Fungi. The most common factor that can cause white spots on the nails is fungi, which can come from the air and soil. People who cover their nails with polish all the time may later see white spots because a lack of oxygen to the toenail encourages the growth of nail fungus. Nail discoloration, in which the nails appear white, yellow, or green, can result from different infections and conditions of the skin. In about 50% of cases, discolored nails are a result of infections with common fungi that can be found in the air, dust, and soil. Picture of Fungal Nail Infection Nails that are infected with a fungus may become discolored (yellowish-brown or opaque), thick and brittle, and may separate from...learn more ». Picture of Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection) The most common fungus infection of the nails is onychomycosis. Nail Fungus. A fungal infection causes a toenail to become discolored. The nail usually turns a dark color from dirt or debris that has become trapped underneath the nail. Other symptoms of fungal infection include a foul smell, thickened nail, crumbled nail or a dull toenail that is misshapen. Injury. Injury to the nail may cause discoloration. Mild trauma to the nail can cause white spots to form on the nail. These white spots usually grow out with the nail and are not serious. If many white spots appear with no clear cause, a medical examination may be needed, as this may signal infectio
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what causes discoloration of toenails