When you notice that you have a black toenail on your foot, it can be quite alarming. The usual healthy color of toenails is a pink-like tone. When you see a black toenail, you panic and immediately think the worst. Some of the savvier sufferers go to their trusted friend Google and type away, trying to figure out what is going on. A black toenail can be caused by a multitude of reasons. Only a trained podiatrist can determine the exact cause and provide proper treatment. So, while you are waiting for your scheduled podiatry appointment, read through the facts and falsehoods about black toenails.
Falsehood #1 – Home remedies will fix your black toenail. If you are suffering from a fungus that is turning your nail black, it may seem easier to grab some anti-fungal cream and treat the nail at home, but the fungus can be very hard to cure. Fungus should be treated by a podiatrist in their office for the best possible results.
Falsehood #2 – You can only get fungus on your toenails if you do not bathe. This is completely untrue. Even the cleanest person in the world can still get a foot fungus. This is because fungus likes to grow in dark, wet places. This makes shoes the perfect breeding ground for fungus. Even if you wear closed toe shoes and are very clean, you can still get toenail fungus and black nails.
Falsehood #3 – It will not have severe effects on your health, so it can be ignored and go untreated. This falsehood can be very dangerous. Black toenails can be a sign of underlying diseases such as diabetes or kidney disorders. If a black toenail is left unchecked, these other disorders may not be found in time.
Falsehood #4- Black toenails are quick and easy to treat. While in some cases it is relatively easy to get rid of a black toenail with a pinprick and the release of built-up blood, in other cases it can be very hard to get rid of black toenails. This is because sometimes cancer, fungus, and other conditions can cause the toenail to blacken. These conditions must be treated before the treatment of the black toenail can be effective.
If you are suffering from a black toenail, whether from a fungus or a traumatic injury, it is important to see a podiatrist immediately. Call Dr. Andrew H. Cohen of Mid-Michigan Foot & Ankle Center, located in Saginaw and Bay City, Michigan. Call 989-790-8009 or make an appointment online today. A black toenail is not permanent.