Orange toenails can be concerning. While often due to common, non-serious factors, underlying conditions (external or internal) can cause this discoloration. Understanding these helps determine when medical evaluation is needed.
Everyday Reasons for Orange Toenails
Fungal infections (onychomycosis) frequently cause orange toenails. Fungi produce pigments that stain the nail plate yellow, brown, or orange. Infections often thicken, embrittle, and dull nails.
Nail polish, especially vibrant or dark shades, is a common culprit. Without a protective base coat, pigments can directly stain the nail plate’s keratin. This superficial staining resolves as the nail grows out or after a break from polish.
Trauma or injury can cause toenail color changes. A subungual hematoma (bleeding under the nail) initially appears red, purple, or black. As blood breaks down and reabsorbs, the bruise transitions through colors, potentially appearing yellow, brown, or orange before fading.
Certain medications can cause nail discoloration. Some antibiotics, chemotherapy, and anti-seizure drugs can change nail color. Though not always orange, these alterations can appear yellowish or brownish.
Environmental exposures also contribute to toenail discoloration. Direct contact with strong chemicals, cleaning agents, or self-tanning products (containing DHA) can stain the nail plate. These dyes react with nail keratin, causing a temporary orange appearance.
Underlying Health Conditions
Systemic health conditions can also cause orange toenail discoloration. Yellow Nail Syndrome is a rare disorder with thickened, slow-growing, yellow-orange nails. It often associates with respiratory problems (e.g., chronic cough, pleural effusions) and limb swelling from impaired lymphatic drainage (lymphedema).
Psoriasis, an autoimmune condition, can affect nails, causing various changes including discoloration. Nail psoriasis may present as an “oil drop” or “salmon patch,” a yellowish-red or orange-brown translucent area beneath the nail. This sign indicates nail psoriasis and can be accompanied by pitting or nail separation.
Kidney and liver diseases can impact nail appearance. Advanced kidney disease might cause yellowish or brownish nails, sometimes from waste product accumulation. Lindsay’s nails (white lower half, reddish-brown upper half) are associated with kidney dysfunction. Severe liver conditions can cause nails to turn yellow from elevated bilirubin (jaundice), or result in Terry’s nails (mostly white with a narrow pink or brown tip).
Diabetes, while not directly causing orange nails, increases susceptibility to fungal infections, leading to discoloration. Diabetics are more prone to onychomycosis due to impaired circulation and elevated blood sugar, creating a favorable environment for fungal growth. These infections often result in yellow, brown, or white toenail discoloration.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many orange toenail instances are benign, certain signs warrant medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare provider if discoloration persists or worsens, especially after removing external causes like nail polish. Persistent changes might indicate an underlying issue requiring diagnosis and treatment.
Accompanying symptoms also indicate the need for medical attention. These include pain, swelling, foul odor, or discharge from the nail. Texture changes, like thickening or crumbling, also warrant a doctor’s visit.
If discoloration spreads to multiple nails or suggests a systemic health issue, seek medical advice. Conditions like Yellow Nail Syndrome or nail psoriasis often involve other body systems; a healthcare professional can assess broader implications. Only a qualified healthcare provider can accurately diagnose and recommend management.
Caring for Your Toenails
Maintaining proper toenail hygiene promotes nail health and can prevent discoloration. Keeping nails clean and dry inhibits microorganism growth. Trimming toenails straight and avoiding cuticle cutting also prevents injury and infection.
Careful footwear choices also contribute to healthy nails. Breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks reduce humidity, minimizing fungal infection risk. These measures create an environment less conducive to discolored nails.
To prevent staining, apply a clear base coat before colored nail polish. Avoiding prolonged contact with harsh chemicals or strong dyes safeguards nail integrity. Regularly inspecting toenails for color or texture changes allows early detection of potential issues.