A pharmacist says there are several signs to watch for in the toenails that could be a sign that all is not well
During winter, feet tend to stay tucked away beneath socks and slippers, meaning toes rarely get the attention they deserve. Yet these often-neglected body parts can actually serve as crucial indicators of our general well-being.
Now, as spring arrives and temperatures begin to rise, people are casting a fresh eye over their feet — and what they find might reveal tell-tale signs that went unnoticed throughout the colder months. These could point towards some potentially serious underlying health concerns.
Such conditions can range from nutritional deficiencies and diabetes to significant circulatory problems. Sheena Bagga, Pharmacist Prescriber at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, has previously drawn attention to the significance of toe and nail health, pinpointing eight warning signs that should set alarm bells ringing, reports the Mirror.
She stressed: “While often overlooked, your toenails and feet play a huge role in your overall health and it’s important to pay attention to their condition. While everyone’s toes look different, healthy nails should have a smooth surface with light pink or translucent colouration without much variation in shade or hue.”
Yellow nails
A key warning sign to be aware of is a yellow discolouration of the toenails, which can suggest an infection. This can affect any portion of the nail, leading to alterations in colour, texture and thickness.
It may also be an indicator of nail psoriasis, which is typically characterised by a pitted appearance or detachment from the nail bed. To ward off toenail infections, experts advise keeping nails trimmed, clean and properly cared for, changing socks daily, and making sure shoes fit properly.
Dark stripes on the nail
This condition, called Melanonychia, appears as a brown or black stripe running down the length of the nail. While typically harmless and merely a difference in nail colouring, it can occasionally signal Subungual Melanoma, a form of skin cancer.
To help prevent Melanonychia, good nail and foot care is essential. Preventing nail injuries is important – if you damage your nail, let it heal fully and avoid picking at it.
Swollen toes
Swelling in the toes can result from various conditions, such as lymphatic problems, inadequate blood flow, or gout. It’s therefore wise to see your GP if you’re noticing other worrying symptoms like pain, discomfort, or difficulty moving.
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis marked by sudden, severe joint pain, usually affecting the big toe, caused by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. It’s more common among people who are overweight, and following a healthy eating plan that promotes weight reduction can help manage the condition.
Swollen toes can also result from less severe issues, such as extended periods of sitting or standing, poorly-fitting shoes, being overweight, insufficient hydration, or consuming too much salt. Adopting a balanced, healthy diet combined with consistent physical activity may help alleviate these everyday problems.
White toenails
White marks or streaks on your nails, referred to as “leukonychia”, are often the result of minor injuries like banging your toe. Sometimes, they may suggest shortages of protein, zinc, or iron.
Fungal infections can cause nails to turn white while also making them weak and flaky, especially if your feet are consistently kept warm and damp. This can be for reasons such as wearing trainers for long stretches as they become hot and sweaty.
Though rare, entirely white nails can indicate more severe health problems, potentially revealing systemic conditions such as liver cirrhosis, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes. If any additional symptoms are worrying, it’s crucial to consult your GP to determine the underlying cause.
Blue discolouration
A blue tint to your nails, accompanied by unusual coldness in your toes, might indicate poor circulation, often associated with Raynaud’s disease. This condition leads to the constriction of tiny arteries that supply blood to your fingers and toes.
Consistent exercise can boost circulation, which helps in controlling Raynaud’s symptoms and sustaining a healthy weight.
Itchy toes
Athlete’s Foot, a common fungal infection, appears as itchy white patches between the toes. It can also affect the soles or sides of the feet, sometimes causing fluid-filled blisters.
To help avoid Athlete’s Foot, ensure you dry your feet completely after washing them, particularly between the toes. Also, put on clean socks every day – cotton is ideal as it allows the skin to breathe more easily.
Ulcers on toes or feet
Different from a blister that forms under the skin, an ulcer is a break in the skin’s surface, appearing as an open sore. It’s crucial that these receive appropriate treatment to minimise any infection risk.
While the wound stays open, it can make you susceptible to developing an infection, which in severe instances can lead to amputation. A diabetic foot ulcer is characterised as an open sore or wound on the skin that takes an extended time to heal.
Spoon Nails
Checking your toenails regularly is important. If your toenails change in appearance and seem curved or ‘spoon’ shaped, it might indicate an iron deficiency or anaemia.
Iron is crucial for producing healthy red blood cells and maintaining good nail health, so it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who may recommend taking a supplement.
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