Noah Sinclair
White spots or build-up on toenails can be caused by a number of things, from fungal infections and psoriasis to nail dehydration and mineral deficiencies. If you have noticed white spots on your toenails, it is important to seek a proper diagnosis and treatment from a podiatrist.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Fungal infection, psoriasis, nail dehydration, mineral deficiencies, keratin granulations |
| Appearance | White spots, yellow or brown discolouration, thick white buildup, blood under the nail, crumbling toenails, toenails that separate from the skin of the nailbed |
| Treatment | Topical treatments, rehydrating nails |
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Fungal infections
White spots on toenails can be caused by a number of factors, including fungal infections, psoriasis, nail dehydration and mineral deficiencies.
There are different types of fungal infections that affect toenails. White superficial onychomycosis can cause the entire nail to become rough and crumbly. Proximal subungual onychomycosis presents as a whitish or yellowish patch that starts at the base of the toenail, near the cuticle. This type of infection is rare in healthy people and more often occurs in people with weakened immune systems.
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Psoriasis
White spots on toenails can be caused by a number of conditions, including fungal infections, psoriasis, nail dehydration and mineral deficiencies.
If you suspect you have nail psoriasis, it is best to seek professional treatment from a local podiatrist or dermatologist. They will be able to provide a proper diagnosis and recommend an appropriate course of treatment.
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Nail dehydration
White spots on toenails can be caused by nail dehydration. This is distinct from nail fungus, which can also cause white spots, as well as psoriasis and mineral deficiencies.
To treat nail dehydration, it is important to keep nails moisturised. This can be done by applying a moisturising cream or oil to the nails and cuticles several times a day. It is also beneficial to choose nail polishes and removers that are free from harsh chemicals, as these can further dry out the nails.
In addition to moisturising, it is important to protect nails from further dehydration. This can be done by wearing gloves when doing household chores or spending time outdoors in cold, dry weather. It is also beneficial to limit exposure to water, as frequent hand-washing or swimming can contribute to nail dehydration.
If nail dehydration is severe, it may be necessary to see a doctor or dermatologist for further treatment. They may recommend a prescription-strength moisturiser or other treatments to help restore nail health.
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Mineral deficiencies
White spots on toenails can be caused by a number of issues, including fungal infections, psoriasis, nail dehydration, and mineral deficiencies.
If you are concerned about white spots on your toenails, it is best to see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Keratin granulations
White spots on toenails can be caused by a number of things, from fungal infections and psoriasis to nail dehydration and mineral deficiencies. Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common cause of white spots on toenails. It can present as a white or yellow-brown spot under the tip or side of the toenail and, if mild, may resolve on its own. However, if left untreated, it can spread across the toenail, causing the entire nail to become rough and crumbly.
Another type of fungal infection is called proximal subungual onychomycosis. It appears as a whitish or yellowish patch that starts at the base of the toenail, near the cuticle. This type of infection is rare in healthy people and is more often seen in those with weakened immune systems or HIV.
Nail psoriasis is another possible cause of white spots on toenails. Approximately 80 to 90 percent of people with psoriasis develop nail psoriasis, and it can present as white patches, tiny dents or pits, yellow or brown discoloration, thick white buildup under the toenail, blood under the nail, crumbling toenails, or toenails that separate from the skin of the nail bed. If most of a toenail appears white, except for the tip, it may be a sign of a mineral deficiency causing the discolouration.
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Frequently asked questions
White build-up on toenails can be a sign of a fungal infection, psoriasis, nail dehydration or mineral deficiencies.
A fungal infection on toenails usually presents as white or yellow-brown spots under the tip or side of the toenail. The nails may dry out and the surface may flake and crumble.
Psoriasis on toenails can cause white patches, tiny dents or pits in the nail, yellow or brown discolouration, thick white build-up under the toenail, blood under the nail, crumbling toenails and toenails that separate from the skin of the nailbed.
Dehydrated nails can become dry and flaky, and may develop white patches on the surface of the nail-plate.
A mineral deficiency can cause most of the toenail to appear white, except for the tip.
