Yellow nails or often called yellow nail syndrome is a rare condition that affects the nails and toenails. This condition is usually accompanied by respiratory problems and lymphatic system problems accompanied by swelling in the lower limbs. Yellow nail syndrome is also associated with lymphedema (swelling of the hands), pleural effusion (fluid buildup in the lungs), chronic bronchitis, to sinus infections.
Yellow nail syndrome can occur to anyone, male or female, but generally occurs in older people, above 50 years. The cause of yellow nail syndrome itself is not known with certainty. But in some cases it was reported that this condition can occur due to hereditary or genetic factors. Problems with the lymphatic system (lymph flow) and lymphedema distichiasis syndrome can also trigger yellow nail syndrome. Yellow nail syndrome can develop on its own or occur in several conditions such as cancer, immunodeficiency, and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
In addition, there are several other conditions that can also cause yellow nails, namely:
- Diabetes.
- Lung diseases such as bronchiectasis and tuberculosis.
- Liver disease, which turns your skin yellow (jaundice).
- Certain medications such as mepacrine, carotene, and tetracycline.
- Psoriasis, a condition that causes patches on the skin.
- Thyroid disorders.
- Too often use nail polish.
Yellow Nail Syndrome Symptoms You Need To Know
In yellow nail syndrome, the nails gradually turn yellow and thicken. Other common symptoms include:
- Cuticle loss, the part of the protective skin that covers the nails.
- Curved nails.
- Nail growth is slow or completely stopped.
- Nails detach and cause loss of nails.
- Yellow nail syndrome can also increase the risk of infection around the nails.
In patients with lymphedema, symptoms of yellow nail syndrome can be in the form of swelling of the hands, face, or genitals. Swelling usually occurs after the appearance of discoloration of the nail.
Meanwhile, in patients with pleural effusion, respiratory disorders such as chronic coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain, can occur before or after the appearance of nail color and shape changes.
Yellow Nail Treatment and Care
There is no specific treatment for yellow nail syndrome. However, patients must immediately get medical treatment to overcome the factors that are the cause of yellow nails, for example medical treatment to overcome lymphedema, pleural effusion, and bronchiectasis.
Diuretic drugs that function to remove excess fluid, and tube thoracostomy (a procedure to reduce fluid in the lungs) can be given to treat pleural effusion. For patients with lymphedema distichiasis syndrome, doctors will usually recommend treatments for lymph drainage, which is a special massage technique that can improve circulation and reduce swelling.
Likewise, the yellow nail syndrome that occurs due to cancer, arthritis, or AIDS, the treatment and care provided is based on the underlying disease.
The change in color and shape of the nails in yellow nail syndrome is usually permanent, but in some cases, the color and shape of the nails can return to normal. As for treatments that can be done include vitamin E ointment, taking vitamin E supplements, taking zinc supplements, antifungal drugs such as itraconazole and fluconazole, corticosteroids, and antibiotics in cases of bacterial sinusitis, lung infections, or excess mucus production.
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