Not all articles we write are as pretty as we always want, but being healthy is something we wish for everyone.

Nail conditions are very often and most people do not know the cause of that.

In today’s article we will tell you a bit about what causes nail discoloration so you can get a better glimpse of what causes this.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nail discoloration, in which nails can appear white, yellow or green, can result from different infections and conditions of the skin but not only.

In most cases discolored nails are a result of infections with common fungi that can be found anywhere we are like the air, dust and soil. There are many species of fungi that can affect nails, the most common, however, is called Trichophyton rubrum. This type of fungus has a tendency to infect the skin and is therefore known as a dermatophyte.

Pseudomonas is a type of bacteria that infects the nail bed and results in a greenish color to the nails. Red or black (that may sometimes appear bruised) nails may result from a hematoma (a collection of blood) under the nail as a result of trauma (including ingrown toenails). 

Chronic medical conditions also can affect the appearance of the nails. Specific color changes in the nails can be suggestive of diabetes or of liver, kidney, heart, or lung conditions. This is why doctors pay specific attention to nails during a routine physical examination. 

 

 

 

 

 

The skin, mucous membranes, and nails may appear blue when there is inadequate oxygenation of blood (cyanosis), but this is not true discoloration of the nail itself.

Try Vinegar

Sometimes nails can develop a greenish hue caused by a bacterial infection, Connolly says. Pour some white vinegar in a bowl and soak your nails in it a few times a day. Vinegar is actually a mild acid, and it can be helpful in these cases.

Try Lemon Juice

To remove run-of-the mill stains from your fingernails, soak them in lemon juice.

Prevent Polish Stains With A Base Coat

A base coat is typically a clear nail polish that goes onto your fingernails first, keeping the colored fingernail polish—and its potential lingering stain—off your nails.

 

When To Visit A Doctor About Nail Discoloration

According to Connolly, onychomycosis is not a problem to be ignored. “In fact, if left untreated, it can spread to other nails and make everyday activities, such as walking or writing, painful and difficult,” he says. See your doctor if:

• You notice unexplained changes in the color of your nail.
• Your nails appear to be abnormally thick.
• The area surrounding your nails are painful or tender.
• You have swelling on the skin surrounding the nail.
• You have a nail that appears to have separated from the nail bed.