Black toenails can be painful, but they often go away on their own.
However, the discoloration can also be reddish, purplish, or brownish.
Any discolorations that are also painful or don’t go away should be assessed by a healthcare provider.
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Black Toenail Causes
There are several reasons why your toenail can become discolored.
The injury bleeds, and the blood is trapped under the nail, where it darkens.
What Is Runner’s Toe?
Your feet may also swell during exercise, which can create more pressure.
It often affects the second or third toe.
Diabetes, vascular disease, and a weak immune system make you more vulnerable to toenail fungus.
It may lead to bacterial infection, which can discolor the nail.
In some cases, certain deficiencies can cause black toenail.
Avitamin B12 deficiencycan lead to black toenails.
Fortunately, the discoloration is reversible.
Melanoma
Rarely, black toenail is due tomelanoma.
When it does happen, it usually appears as a dark streak.
you might also see a dermatologist for a black toenail, especially if you suspect melanoma.
Toenail fungus can spread to other toes if it isn’t treated.
If the discoloration is due to melanoma, it may spread elsewhere in the body.
How Are Black Toenails Diagnosed?
How Do You Treat a Toenail That Has Turned Black?
Over time, the nail will grow out and the discoloration will no longer be present.
It is not painful because the nail doesn’t have nerves.
If black toenail is brought on by a fungal infection,toenail treatmentsinclude both topical and oral antifungals.
There are some over-the-counter (OTC) remedies and medications available, including ointments and soaks.
In the rare case of subungual melanoma, the treatment is usually surgical removal of the growth.
If it has spread beyond the nail or toe, your healthcare provider will discuss treatment options with you.
Prevention
you might’t always prevent black toenails, especially those brought on by a sudden injury.
It should resolve on its own as the nail grows out.
Some medications and, rarely, cancer, can also cause a black toenail.
If the nail hurts after injury, a healthcare provider can drain the blood painlessly.
For infections, antifungals and antibiotics that you apply to the nail or take orally can help.
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