Why do diabetics have thick toenails?

Diabetics often have reduced blood flow to their feet, which may cause thicker toenails or numbness.

How do diabetics treat thick toenails?

Applying a small amount of melted coconut oil can help heal thick yellow toenails. You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal nail creams and ointments. Be sure to clip and clean your nails before use to make sure the creams reach deeper layers. Laser therapy can be used to treat a fungal toenail infection.

What do diabetic toe nails look like?

In some people with diabetes, the nails take on a yellowish hue. Often this coloring has to do with the breakdown of sugar and its effect on the collagen in nails.

How do you treat diabetic toenails?

Cut toenails after bathing, when they are soft. Trim them straight across, then smooth with a nail file. Avoid cutting into the corners of toes. Don't let the corners of your toenails grow into the skin.

Does diabetes make your nails thick?

In a study published in the Journal Dermatologic Therapy, researchers wrote: "Over time many diabetics develop nails that are yellow, thickened, and sometimes fragile, ridged and brittle. "There is definite overlap with some of the physical attributes seen in diabetic nails and those seen with ageing.

Why is my big toenail so thick?

Toenails that have grown thicker over time likely indicate a fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis. Left untreated, thick toenails can become painful. Prompt treatment is key to curing the nail fungus. Fungal infections can be difficult to cure and may require months of treatment.

Why can't diabetics cut toenails?

That's because diabetes often causes poor circulation that leads to numbness in the feet. Numbness makes it less likely that you'll notice cuts, scrapes, and blisters on your feet, and poor circulation means those wounds are less likely to heal properly.

What are signs of diabetic feet?

Signs of Diabetic Foot Problems

• Changes in skin color.
• Changes in skin temperature.
• Swelling in the foot or ankle.
• Pain in the legs.
• Open sores on the feet that are slow to heal or are draining.
• Ingrown toenails or toenails infected with fungus.
• Corns or calluses.
• Dry cracks in the skin, especially around the heel.

Should a diabetic wear socks to bed?

Consider socks made specifically for patients living with diabetes. These socks have extra cushioning, do not have elastic tops, are higher than the ankle and are made from fibers that wick moisture away from the skin. Wear socks to bed. If your feet get cold at night, wear socks.

How do you cut thick toenails?

Tackling thick toenails

1. Soak your feet in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften your nails.
2. Make small cuts with the clipper to avoid splintering the nail. Then cut straight across.
3. If thickened toenails are too painful or difficult to cut yourself, call us for advice or an appointment.

Can a diabetic have a pedicure?

In general, it's safe to get manicures or pedicures at a spa or nail salon if you have diabetes that's well-controlled, says Fred Williams, MD.

What is the white hard stuff under my toenails?

This overgrowth is called subungual hyperkeratosis. People with hyperkeratosis may notice a white, chalky substance under the nail. When this occurs in the toenails, the pressure of shoes pushing down on the nails might cause pain.

What does diabetes do to toes?

They can happen over time when high blood sugar damages the nerves and blood vessels in the feet. The nerve damage, called diabetic neuropathy, can cause numbness, tingling, pain, or a loss of feeling in your feet.

Can thickened toenails be reversed?

Thick toenails can be reversed if the underlying cause is addressed or proper preventative measures are taken. Polishing rough surfaces to make them smoother is a great way to treat thick toenails. Avoid pedicures because they may cause fungal infection to flare up when cuticles are removed.

How can I make my toenails healthy again?

10 Tips For Growing Healthy Toenails

1. Daily Cleansing. ...
2. Moisturize. ...
3. Frequent Trimming. ...
4. Filing. ...
5. Toenail Friendly Diet. ...
6. Wearing Proper Shoes and Socks. ...
7. Occasional Massage. ...
8. Treat Yourself To Foot Soaks.

Is it OK to file down thick toenails?

For nails that are still intact, it's acceptable to gently file down the nail as long as you don't file it too thin (this can increase the possibility of infection).

Why can't diabetics wear black socks?

Diabetic socks will keep your feet warm and dry to avoid blisters, ulcers, and fungal infection. You should also avoid wearing dark-colored socks because you may not notice blood or discharge from a wound on your foot.

How can I improve my circulation in my diabetic feet?

Keep the blood flowing to your feet

1. Put your feet up when you are sitting.
2. Wiggle your toes for a few minutes throughout the day. Move your ankles up and down and in and out to help blood flow in your feet and legs.
3. Do not wear tight socks or elastic stockings. ...
4. Be more physically active. ...
5. Stop smoking.

What can diabetics not do?

• Sugar-sweetened beverages. Sugary beverages are the worst drink choice for someone with diabetes. ...
• Trans fats. Artificial trans fats are extremely unhealthy. ...
• White bread, rice, and pasta. ...
• Fruit-flavored yogurt. ...
• Sweetened breakfast cereals. ...
• Flavored coffee drinks. ...
• Honey, agave nectar, and maple syrup. ...
• Dried fruit.

What are 10 warning signs of diabetes?

Early signs and symptoms of diabetes

• Frequent urination. When your blood sugar is high, your kidneys expel the excess blood sugar, causing you to urinate more frequently. ...
• Increased thirst. ...
• Fatigue. ...
• Blurred vision. ...
• Increased hunger. ...
• Unexplained weight loss. ...
• Slow healing cuts and wounds. ...
• Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet.

What does diabetic legs look like?

Shin Spots (Diabetic Dermopathy)

High blood sugar from diabetes damages small blood vessels and causes these brownish patches. These roundish, rough spots often appear on your shins. Dermopathy is usually harmless and should fade away in 18 months or so. But it also can last a long time.

What are the 5 main symptoms of diabetic neuropathy?

Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are often worse at night, and may include:

• Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes.
• Tingling or burning feeling.
• Sharp pains or cramps.
• Muscle weakness.
• Extreme sensitivity to touch — for some people, even a bedsheet's weight can be painful.

Why should diabetics not soak their feet?

Diabetes: Tips for Regular Foot Care

Do not soak feet, or you'll risk infection if the skin begins to break down. And if you have nerve damage, take care with water temperature.

Why can't diabetics take hot baths?

Diabetes can contribute to nerve damage, leaving your feet less sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. Stepping into boiling water could scald you before you feel a thing. To prevent burns, keep the water temperature at 105°F (40.5°C) or lower.

What do podiatrists use to cut thick toenails?

Heavy duty podiatry-grade toenail clippers: We recommend ClipPro nail clippers for our patients. The ClipPro Toenail Clipper is the best consumer nail clipper we have found for extra thick and irregular nails. Its jaw opens up to over 1″ wide and the top of blades is slightly curved to contour around your nails.