Having some nail discoloration is not good news. At rare times, it may be harmless, but most times, it may signify the presence of diseases and internal medical conditions.
Nail Discoloration from the Yellow Nail Syndrome
The syndrome is usually attributed to lymphoedema (lymphatic system blockage swellings), pleural effusions (fluid accumulation within the lung and chest cavity) and even sinusitis or continuous chest infections. The cause of disease is unknown and rare and when present causes nails to become thick and yellowish in color. A sufferer may benefit from topical application of vitamin E solution or its supplement alternative. Other causes of yellowing of nails include smoking, nail polish, psoriasis, and fungal nail infection.
Splinter Hemorrhages
These are small areas of bleeding under the nails. They are caused by nail injuries and endocarditis (heart valve infections). A major symptom is a red or reddish brown narrow line on the nails affected. Injury caused splinter hemorrhages will disappear as nails grow though.
Dark Streaks
- These streaks on the nail are usually in form of a narrow brown or black line appearing lengthwise. Many things cause them including:
- Malignant melanoma or other skin cancer types- usually cause a pigmented line
- Bacterial or fungal infections and lichen planus-tend to cause nail streaks
- Addison’s disease, a disorder of the adrenal gland
- Side effects of drugs like antibiotic minocycline-causes streaking of nails
- Natural birthmarks or naevus- cause a dark line on nails
- Subungual haematoma (blood collection under the nail from injuries)-easily treated via first aid or draining if serious.
Additional Nail Color Changes
- Liver or kidney problems- usually indicated by white nail beds
- Chronic kidney disease- indicated by brown nail beds
- Heart failure-indicated by red lunulae (area at the base of nails which is supposed to be whitish)
- Genetic disease caused by copper accumulation in the body-indicated by blue lunular
- Side effects of the drug mepacrine-indicated by blue nail beds
Should You Worry About Nail Discoloration
Since many incidences of discoloration of the nails are caused by self-inflicted injuries, beauty regimens, and treatments, most changes of this nature are not harmful. One should not panic when most of these changes happen. The spokesperson of American College of Physicians, Christine Laine says that most nail color changes are not the first symptoms of serious health issues. In fact, she believes that many people will have other more visible symptoms long before the nails change in color. It is, however, recommended that anyone with discolored nails to seek medical help as soon as possible.
