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When toenails turn black, many people worry about its impact on health. Here, Mytour Blog answers why toenails turn black and shares some highly effective treatments to end this condition and achieve beautiful toenails.
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1. What is the Cause of Blackened Toenails?
1.1. Blood Pooling under the Nail
When a heavy object falls on the foot, it can rupture blood vessels under the nail. As a result, the toenail will have pooled blood, appearing black, and causing throbbing pain. If you can allow that blood clot to drain out, the pain will subside.
Toenail turning black due to blood pooling from impact (Source: Internet)1.2. Fungal Infection
The toenail is a breeding ground for various fungi, leading to discoloration and an unpleasant odor. In some cases, fungi from the foot spread to the nails, causing them to change colors like yellow, green, brown, purple, black, or yellowish (depending on the fungus).
Fungal infection causes blackening and odor in toenails (Source: Internet)1.3. Skin Cancer
Black toenails due to melanoma, a type of skin cancer, are the most dangerous. Initially, dark spots appear on the toenail, gradually changing color without causing pain. However, this condition is extremely rare and can be treatable if detected early.
Black toenails due to skin cancer are the most dangerous but can be treatable if detected early (Source: Internet)1.4. Plantar Warts
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the culprit behind plantar warts. When these warts form under the toenail, they push up the non-living skin layer, causing toenail cracks. If your toenail turns black due to this, it's essential to promptly seek medical attention for timely treatment.
Plantar warts pushing up the non-living skin layer, causing toenail cracks (Source: Internet)2. What to Do If Your Toenails Turn Black?
2.1. Treating Bruised Nails
If your toenails turn black due to bruising, you can try the following remedies:
- Cold Compress: Apply a cold pack to the blackened toenail to reduce pain and dissipate the bruised blood.
- Hot Soak: Use a warm cloth on the toenail after applying a cold compress.
- Egg Roll: Roll a boiled egg evenly over the bruised area, and you'll see the dark spot gradually disappear.
- Opt for open-toe shoes and avoid closed-toe footwear during this period.
2.2. Treating Fungal Infection
If your toenails turn black due to a fungal infection, the choice of nail fungus treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
- Severe Cases: Ciclopirox, Amorolfine, Efinaconazole, Tavaborole,…
- Mild Cases: Dr.Scholl’s Fungal Nail Treatment, Lotrimin AF, Urea Care, Urea 40+,…
Note: It is advisable to visit a dermatology clinic for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment according to your specific fungal infection.
2.3. Skin Cancer Treatment
As black toenails due to skin cancer pose the most serious threat, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention for examination and treatment. Doctors may perform partial or complete removal of the affected toenail.
2.4. Medication Treatment
If opting for medication to treat black toenails, it is advisable to visit reputable healthcare facilities for accurate prescription. Self-diagnosis and over-the-counter medication can have life-threatening side effects, so it is not recommended.
With this article, Mytour has provided you with answers to why toenails turn black and shared some excellent treatment methods. Hopefully, you will choose the most suitable approach to end this painful condition. Also, remember to regularly follow Mytour Blog for updates on useful information about treating black toenails!
