Why Has My Toenail Turned Green and Lifted From the Nail Bed?

Why Has My Toenail Turned Green and Lifted From the Nail Bed?

By Michelle Champlin, Chief Podiatrist

It can be worrying to see a toenail becoming greenish in colour and beginning to separate from the nail bed. This is a common condition we see in podiatry, often referred to as green nail syndrome.

What causes the green colour?

The green stain is usually caused by a bacterium called Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This particular bacteria produces a green pigment that seeps into the nail from underneath.

Unlike the natural bacteria that live harmlessly on our skin, Pseudomonas is an environmental opportunist. It is commonly found in soil, tap water, swimming pools, sinks, and even in damp shoes. It does not normally live on the body, but once it finds the right conditions, it can quickly multiply.

Why does it affect the nail?

For the bacteria to take hold, it needs a space to live. This happens when the nail lifts from the nail bed (a process called onycholysis). The lift creates a small pocket where moisture can collect — the perfect place for bacteria to settle.

Nails can lift for several reasons:

•Trauma from tight shoes or stubbing the toe or the toe hyper flexing and rubbing on the ceiling of the shoe

•Repeated nail polish use or gel applications

•A fungal infection that weakens the nail attachment and damages the integrity of the nail plate and the attachment to the skin of the nail bed.

Once the nail is lifted, the space underneath becomes very difficult to keep dry, allowing bacteria to grow and produce the green discoloration.

What should you do if your nail turns green?

• Keep it dry and clean – bacteria thrive in moisture. Using a hair dryer on a cool setting for 30 seconds to dry under the nail after bathing helps to dry-out the area.
• Trim back the lifted portion if possible, so less space exists under the nail, allowing less humidity to develop.
• Antiseptic soaks (such as diluted vinegar or chlorhexidine) may help reduce bacterial growth. Always check the directions as neat, undiluted vinegar can make the whole toenail fall off from the intense ph level.
• Seek podiatric care – in some cases, topical or prescription treatments may be required, especially if the infection persists or is painful. When visiting the podiatrist take your shoes and corresponding socks for examination.  The fitting will be checked as this is the most common source of the problem that causes the toenail to detach.

When to see a podiatrist urgently

If you notice pain, swelling, pus, spreading redness, or if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, it’s very important to see a podiatrist or doctor promptly. Having bacterial or fungal growth may prevent the nail from growing well and attaching to the nail bed.

Key takeaway:

A green toenail isn’t dangerous in most cases, but it’s a sign that the nail has lifted and has allowed bacteria to move in. With the right care, it can usually be managed effectively — and keeping your toenails healthy, dry, and protected is the best way to prevent it coming back.

 

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