White toenails can be a sign of a few different conditions, including:
- Fungal infection: A fungal infection, such as toenail fungus, can cause the toenail to turn white or yellow and become thick and brittle.
- Trauma: Trauma to the toenail, such as from stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it, can cause the toenail to turn white or discolored.
- Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a skin condition that can affect the nails, causing them to turn white, yellow, or brown.
- Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain vitamins and minerals in the diet, such as zinc or protein, can cause the toenails to become white and brittle.
- Allergic reaction: An allergic reaction to certain products or materials, such as nail polish or acrylic nails, can cause the toenails to turn white or become discoloured.
If you are experiencing white toenails, it’s important to see a healthcare provider or a podiatrist to determine the underlying cause of the problem. They can help diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatments, such as anti-fungal medications or dietary changes, to help improve the health of your toenails.