What will cause your fingernail to turn yellow?

Answer by  noey1958 (1405)

This could be a sign that the nail or nail bed has been injured. Sometimes tobacco can turn a fingernail yellow. You can take this off with a bit of juice from a lemon. If you feel that your finger has been injured you should watch the nail and if it gets worse you should see a doctor.

Answer by  kim52 (66)

Fungal infections can cause yellow discoloration in the nails. Nail polish could also cause it but it is more likely to be on more then one nail then.

Answer by  Aubs (1089)

More than likely, you have some sort of fungal infection under that nail. These can be cured by certain creams. Another possibility is that you have been using dark nail polish and for some reason, that nail has been damaged and stained by the dark colors. This is typical with dark polish.

Answer by  DStone (817)

If it's a finger nail, you may have a nail bed irritation that is only affecting one nail. This can be anything from an infection or a fungus. If it is accompanied by pain or numbness, see a doctor right away; they can perscribe a simple set of antibiotics that will help you.

Answer by  whoareyou (3483)

The two main causes of discoloration are fungus/bacteria, and/or the nail not getting enough sunlight (common with nail polish wearers). An over-the-counter anti-fungal cream should work, otherwise consult your doctor.