Yellow toenails aren't merely unsightly. The yellow color can indicate that you have a fungal infection of the nails known as onychomycosis. While toenail fungus may seem like a cosmetic issue, failing to treat the infection can lead to health complications. Doctors treat the condition with an anti-fungal medication that kills the fungus responsible for the discoloration of the toenails.
Identification
Toenails infected with a fungus look yellow or brown and may become thick, crumbly or brittle. Your toenail may lose its shine and look dull. If the condition isn't treated, your nail may begin to separate from the nail bed.
Cause
Fungi are microscopic organisms that grow in moist, warm places. Toenails are particularly susceptible to fungal growth because feet are prone to sweating. If you spend most of the day wearing shoes and socks, moisture can't evaporate and your feet stay damp, making them a prime target for toenail fungus. Although you can develop fungal infections of the fingernails, the condition is seen more often in the toenails. MayoClinic.com reports that diminished blood circulation in the toes as compared to the fingers may make it harder for your immune system to detect and eliminate infection.
Risk Factors
Your chance of developing toenail fungus may increase with age or if you are male. You may be more likely to develop a fungal infection if there is a family history of the condition or if you have previously had an infection. Diabetes, psoriasis, injuries to the skin around the toenails, immune system conditions and diseases, and problems with circulation can increase your susceptibility to developing toenail fungus.
The American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine reports that people whose feet perspire heavily or who are prone to developing athlete's foot may be at risk of developing an infection. If you work in a damp environment, you may also be at increased risk.
Treatment
Although you'll find medication to treat toenail fungus in drugstores, these medications aren't very effective, according to MayoClinic.com. Mild cases of toenail fungus may be treated with ciclopriox, a topical prescription treatment that you apply directly to your toenails. Your doctor may prescribe oral anti-fungal drugs, such as itraconazole and terbinafine, to treat more severe infections. You may need to take these medications for six weeks or longer. In particularly severe or stubborn cases, your doctor may recommend removal of the toenail.
Prevention/Solution
Keeping feet dry can help you avoid further fungal infections of your nails. Socks made of material that wicks away moisture can help, as can removing shoes and socks whenever possible. If your feet are particularly sweaty, changing shoes and socks in the middle of the day can help reduce moisture. The American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine suggests wearing foot protection at health clubs because fungi are particularly prevalent around swimming pools, showers and locker rooms.
Warning
Failure to treat toenail fungus can result in an abscess under the nail. Untreated infections can also damage nerves if you have a blood circulation disorder or diabetes. MayoClinic.com reports that the fungal infection can spread beyond your feet if you have a suppressed immune system, diabetes or other conditions.
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