What Causes Black Toenails?
Toenails are naturally white but may change due to a variety of reasons and factors. Have you noticed a discoloration in your toenail that looks like it’s turning a black-ish color? You may have developed a black toenail. So what exactly is a black toenail? Is this something to worry about for your health? Black toenails are caused by various reasons, some of which will resolve on their own over time. Think you may have a black toenail and are looking for a podiatrist in Seaford? Look no further; Cherrywood Foot Care helps you get back on your feet, starting with healthy feet and toenails.
Common Causes
If you have noticed one or more of your toes have turned black, this is most commonly just a simple bruise under the nail. This is most likely caused by an injury or trauma to the foot or toes such as stubbing a toe on a hard surface or object or wearing shoes too small for your feet. When these small injuries occur, the blood vessels under the nail break apart causing a small subungual hematoma. The bleeding that is a result of this injury makes the nail bruise, turning red then eventually purple, then black. If you definitely had trauma to your toe before the nail turned black, you shouldn’t fear. The nail will eventually grow out over time, but if you would like to visit a podiatrist in Seaford for a second opinion, Cherrywood Foot Care is here to help you.
Rare Causes
Are you positive that your toenail hasn’t experienced a recent trauma or injury but is clearly turning a black color? Your black toenail may be caused by a much rarer condition that a podiatrist in Seaford can help identify and treat. These causes of a black toenail include:
- An underlying medical condition such as diabetes, anemia, heart disease, or kidney disease.
- Fungal infections
- Melanoma
Our Podiatrist in Seaford Can Help!
Think you may have a black toenail and need help identifying and treating it by a podiatrist in Seaford? Here at Cherrywood Foot Care, our certified podiatrists are here to treat any problems that occur throughout your foot, ankle, and toes, giving you healthier feet to get back on and conquer the world. Want to schedule an appointment? Visit our website today!