Yellow toenails are caused by a fungal or yeast infection. Medically referred to as onychomycosis, toenail infections occur when a fungi or yeast species, which naturally grows on the body, rapidly proliferates when exposed to proper conditions, according to the NYU Langone Medical Center. If left untreated, toenail infections may spread deeper into the nail.
Causes
Toenail infections are caused by the proliferation of ringworm fungus or yeast. The growth of fungus and yeast on the body requires a warm and moist environment. Toenail infections occur if the feet are exposed to such environment as locker rooms, bathrooms or pool decks. Fungus and yeast can also grow if the feet are tightly fitted into shoes, within damp socks, subjected to injury to the nail bed or in response to poor nail hygiene, notes the NYU Langone Medical Center and University of Maryland Medical Center.
Risk Factors
The incidence of toenail infections increase in persons over the age of 60, those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, those with vascular disease or immune system disorders such as HIV, and in individuals who smoke, according to the NYU Langone Medical Center.
Signs and Symptoms
Fungal or yeast infections will cause the nail to thicken and become yellow. The nail will appear chipped and brittle. The shape of the nail will change, and it will lose its shine. Some nails will loosen and fall off, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Treatment
Treating nail infections is difficult and infections can reappear after treatment. Over-the-counter medications and ointments will not rid the nail of the infection. Approximately 50 percent of patients will successfully treat a nail infection using prescribed antifungal oral medications; however, these medications can cause a variety of side effects, conflict with other medications and can harm the liver. In severe cases, some physicians may recommend removing the nail; however, growing a new nail may take up to one year, notes the NYU Langone Medical Center.
Prevention
To prevent toenail infections keep the nails short and clean; keep the feet clean and dry; do not cut or pick at the skin around the nails; avoid tightly fitting shoes; wear cotton socks and change them if they become damp; wear sandals around locker rooms, swimming pools and other public facilities; quit smoking; and control diabetes, notes University of Maryland Medical Center.
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