Green nails, a greenish discoloration of the nail plate, are a common concern. This condition, sometimes called chloronychia, can affect fingernails or toenails. Preventing green nails is often straightforward with an understanding of its underlying cause and proper nail care practices.
Understanding the Cause of Green Nails
Green nails are primarily caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly involving Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This bacterium produces pigments like pyocyanin and pyoverdin, which give the nail its characteristic green, blue-green, or greenish-black color. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is commonly found in moist environments, including water sources, soil, and on the skin.
This bacterium thrives in damp, dark conditions, especially when moisture becomes trapped beneath a lifted nail plate or artificial nails. Such environments are created by prolonged water exposure, nail trauma, or poorly fitted artificial nails that allow water and debris to accumulate. Conditions like onycholysis, where the nail separates from the nail bed, or chronic paronychia, an infection of the skin around the nail, can also provide entry points for this bacterium.
Key Strategies for Prevention
Maintaining dry nails and cuticles is a primary defense against green nails. Pseudomonas aeruginosa cannot survive effectively on dry, healthy skin. Wearing waterproof gloves for tasks involving prolonged water exposure, such as washing dishes or cleaning, helps prevent moisture from trapping under the nails. Thoroughly drying hands and feet after washing or bathing is also important to remove any lingering moisture.
Proper nail hygiene plays a significant role in prevention. Regularly cleaning underneath the nails and trimming them to a manageable length can reduce areas where bacteria might accumulate. Avoiding excessive nail length can also minimize opportunities for trauma or lifting of the nail plate. Disinfecting nail tools regularly is also important to prevent the spread of bacteria.
For individuals who wear artificial nails, careful application and maintenance are important. Ensuring that artificial nails are properly applied without air bubbles and are well-sealed at the edges prevents moisture from becoming trapped underneath. Promptly addressing any lifting of artificial nails is also important, as this creates a prime breeding ground for bacteria. Allow natural nails to air out periodically, especially after extended periods of wearing artificial nails or after exposure to moisture.
Protecting nails from injury or repeated impact can prevent trauma that might lead to nail separation or damage, allowing bacterial entry. For toenails, choosing breathable footwear and socks helps ensure adequate air circulation and prevents moisture buildup, reducing the risk of infection. Keeping nails healthy and dry reduces the risk of developing green nail syndrome.
When to Consult a Professional
If the green discoloration on your nails spreads, becomes painful, or if prevention strategies do not resolve the issue within a reasonable timeframe, consulting a doctor or dermatologist is advisable. A healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the cause of the discoloration, as other conditions can sometimes mimic green nail syndrome. They can also determine if the infection is severe or if there are underlying predisposing factors.
Medical evaluation may involve culturing the nail to confirm the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and rule out other infections. Treatment options can include topical antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin solution or nadifloxacin cream, applied directly to the affected nail. In some cases, oral antibiotics might be considered, especially if the infection is widespread or severe.