Your toenails are changing colour to a brownish-blackish shade. You become apprehensive of exposing that nail or nails so much so that you resort to constantly wearing shoes and sneakers. But alas, therein lies the problem.

Dermatologist Dr Clive Anderson, who operates at the Nuttal Medical Centre in St Andrew, says nail discolouration can be caused by a variety of things, including fungal infection and trauma. However, for the purpose of this story, it is the latter which will be elaborated on.

Nail discolouration

According to Anderson, the causes of nail discolouration can be categorised as physiologic or pathology. Physiologic speaks to cases of discolouration which are normal and the other speaks to those that are abnormal, such as trauma. "With pathology, the nail becoming discoloured has to do with something that happened to the nail bed or base. As for physiologic, in black people, bands of pigment of a darkish, thin layer can be considered normal pigmentation, which is not an indication of an infection," notes Dr Anderson

The incorrect shoe fit can be the cause of trauma to toenails. Shoes are to fit properly so there is no tension and pressure placed on the toes. Men who wear sneakers and shoes constantly are to ensure that since the feet are not given enough space to breathe, the correct shoe size is bought. "Wear shoes that have a box (mouth) that is wide enough for feet as heels tend to push toes forward thus causing pressure, which could lead to trauma."

Athletes

Athletes and sports participants are said to be more prone to nail discolouration and can even experience chronic trauma due to the constant pressure the feet undergo.

When trauma occurs, depending on the level, people may or may not experience nail loss. Dr Anderson said this is dependent on the severity of the case. "If trauma is severe, then the nail may be lost to allow for the growth of new, healthy nail."

There are treatments available for nail discolouration including anti-fungal treatments, some of which last from six months to a year, as well as the removal of the nail depending on the case. Waiting until new nail growth is achieved is also an option, if it is advised by the doctor.

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com

When wearing shoes or sneakers, it is important to wear socks as they act as cushions for the feet and toenails.

Additional tips

1. Health is important and sweaty feet can cause problems like discolouration and infection. Keeping feet dry and fresh is important.

2. It is important to get treatment for fungus between the toes as this can eventually spread to the nails.

3. The size of the shoe is important and the width is equally important as some people have wide feet.

4. Wear socks as they help in the cushioning of the toes and nails, especially when running and jogging.