Melanonychia can affect one or multiple fingernails or toenails. It can present as a brown or black discoloration that may start at the nail matrix or appear as a band across the nail. Total melanonychia affects the whole nail. There are several possible causes of melanonychia. It occurs due to an increase in melanin production or pigmentation.
Common Causes of Black Nails. There are several reasons why your nails may be turning black without any apparent injury. It's essential to be aware of these causes so that you can take appropriate action. Let's explore the most common ones: Fungal Infections. Fungal infections, such as onychomycosis, can lead to black discoloration of the nails ...
What causes dark nails? The main causes of black nails are: 1. Direct trauma. A blow to the nail can lead to bruising, which can turn the nail black, brown or dark. The darkening in this case is related to the rupture of small blood vessels, causing blood to become trapped under the nail.
“If your nail is brown or black, the most important thing to worry about is a nail melanoma,” (a.k.a. the most serious form of skin cancer), says Shari Lipner, M.D., Ph.D., a dermatologist and ...
Melanonychia occurs when brown or black discoloration appears on the nail plate due to an increase in melanin, the pigment responsible for skin and hair color. It can affect one or multiple nails and may present as a single band or multiple streaks. The condition may remain stable or change over time, which could indicate underlying health issues.
If your fingernails are turning black, it is essential to observe any accompanying symptoms. If the discoloration persists or is accompanied by pain, swelling, or changes in nail shape, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. Early intervention is crucial for serious conditions. Can black fingernails be a sign of a serious ...
The bruise usually starts out red, then becomes purple, dark brown, and finally black when blood beneath the nail pools and clots. Expect your black toenail to grow out in about 6 to 9 months or ...
10. Are there dark lines or blobs underneath? A thick black or brown line that runs from the bottom to the tip might be melanoma. Sometimes it shows up as a dark-colored blob. 11. Are the nails loose?
The cuticle protects the area between the skin and the nail from infections. The color of nails can be influenced by several factors: genetics, diet, and overall health. Changes in color can indicate various conditions that may require attention. Common Causes of Dark Fingernails. There are several reasons why fingernails might turn dark.
Nail color is primarily influenced by the underlying nail bed and the condition of the skin surrounding it. Healthy nails are typically pinkish in color due to the blood vessels beneath the nail bed. However, when this color changes to darker shades—ranging from brown to black—it raises questions about what might be happening within the body.
Greenish black color When bacteria cause a nail infection, the nail can turn greenish black as shown here. Without treatment, a nail infection tends to worsen. Treatment can get rid of your pain and tenderness and help clear the infection. Fingernail with pits. Medical name: Pitting.
Color changing. While there are some harmless causes of nails changing color, some are a warning sign of diseases, infections, anemia, and even poisoning. Watch out for unexplained changes to blue, white/pale, greenish-black, yellow, or red, which can affect either the whole nail or just parts of it. A dark streak. Dark streaks on a fingernail ...
The color of nails can vary based on several factors, including blood flow and the presence of certain pigments. Healthy nails typically appear pink due to the blood vessels beneath them. ... Understanding why nails turn black involves recognizing various causes ranging from simple injuries to more serious health concerns. While some instances ...
Key Takeaways: Nail Care Essentials Nail Discoloration Signals Health Issues: Dark nails can indicate infections. Trauma is a Common Cause: Injury can lead to subungual hematoma, darkening nails. Fungal Infections Can Alter Color: Certain fungi may cause blackened nails. Regular Check-ups are Crucial: Consult a dermatologist for persistent changes.
Exposure to certain chemicals can lead to changes in nail color. For example, frequent use of hair dyes or cleaning agents without proper protection may cause nails to darken over time. ... Understanding why your fingernails are turning black involves recognizing various potential causes ranging from minor injuries to serious health conditions ...