What Can Cause Nail Discoloration, and When Should I Be Concerned?

Internal Medicine, Mass General Brigham

Supervised by Suo Lee, MD

Nail discoloration can happen for many reasons, e.g. from an injury, fungal infection, or even medications. You should be concerned if the discoloration is changing, spreading, or comes with other symptoms like pain or swelling.

Explanation

There are lots of reasons your nails might change color. Sometimes, a little injury can cause a bruise or dark spot on the nail, and that is usually harmless. Nail fungus might make your nail look yellow or brown. Other times, your nail might change color from the nail polish you use, or even from some medicines. In older people, simply aging or other health conditions can lead to changes in nail color. If you notice that the discoloration is not just a small spot but is getting larger, or if your nail starts to thicken, hurt, or show signs of infection like swelling or foul odor, that is a sign to consult a doctor. Also, if you see strange patterns like white spots or streaks on your nails, it might be a clue of an underlying condition. Paying attention to these changes and talking to a healthcare professional will help you decide if the discoloration needs treatment or further testing.

(References)

Abdullah L, Abbas O. Common nail changes and disorders in older people: Diagnosis and management. Can Fam Physician. 2011 Feb;57(2):173-81. PMID: 21321168; PMCID: PMC3038811.
Iorizzo M, Starace M, Pasch MC. Leukonychia: What Can White Nails Tell Us? Am J Clin Dermatol. 2022 Mar;23(2):177-193. doi: 10.1007/s40257-022-00671-6. Epub 2022 Feb 2. PMID: 35112320; PMCID: PMC8809498.
Bellet JS. Nail discoloration in pediatric skin of color patients. Pediatr Dermatol. 2021 Nov;38 Suppl 2:37-41. doi: 10.1111/pde.14659. Epub 2021 Jul 15. PMID: 34263476.

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