Yellow toenails should never be ignored.
They’re most often sparked by a fungal infection that’s contagious and hard to eliminate without proper treatment.
Consulting your healthcare provider ensures you will get an accurate diagnosis and the most effective treatment.
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Aging
Your toenails naturally change as you get older.
Fungal Infection
Afungal infection(onychomycosis) is by far the most common cause of yellow toenails.
The fungal organisms thrive in warm, moist environments (like inside your shoes).
In this case, youll likely notice yellowing of your fingernails in addition to your toenails.
Though this may cause yellow nails, the discoloration disappears as the toenail grows out.
People with yellow nail syndrome have leg swelling due to a fluid buildup (lymphedema).
Fungal infections dont get better on their own.
In fact, your symptoms may get worse and the fungus can spread.
Diagnosis
Usually, a healthcare provider candiagnose yellow toenailsby looking at your feet.
That can help them identify what is or isnt causing your yellow toenails.
If a fungal infection isnt to blame, healthcare providers will ask about your medical history and medications.
If a medication may be causing yellow toenails, youll work together to determine whether you should change medicines.
Never discontinue medication without talking with your healthcare provider.
Treatment
The treatment your healthcare provider recommends depends on the underlying cause of your yellow toenail.
However, there are two basic options: medications and home remedies.
However, these topical medicines take a long time to penetrate the nail and reach the fungus.
It’s also important to be careful not to spread the fungus to other parts of your own body.
Some may improve your yellow toenail.
However, few are backed by reliable research studies proving their ability to cure a fungal infection.
Medical Treatment
In most cases treating yellow toenails involves treating a fungal infection.
The first line of treatment includes oral and/or topical medication.
Prevention
One of the best ways to prevent yellow toenails is to maintain foot hygiene.
Though less common, there are many possible health conditions and medications that can cause yellow toenails.
If you develop yellow toenails, you should see a healthcare provider.
They can determine if it’s a fungal infection or another problem and recommend the most effective treatment.
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