Overview
Yellow nail syndrome is a rare condition that affects your nails, lungs and limbs. People with yellow nail syndrome get yellow, curved nails that may thicken or fall off. They also may have respiratory symptoms, such as a chronic cough, and usually have swollen lower legs or ankles.
Experts don’t know what causes yellow nail syndrome. But it may be linked to improper circulation, issues with lymphatic drainage or buildup of fluid around your lungs. You may also have a higher risk if you have one of a few specific chronic diseases, dental implants or a joint replacement.
Who might get yellow nail syndrome?
Yellow nail syndrome develops most often in adults over 50. More rarely, yellow nail syndrome sometimes occurs in children.
Some reports show higher rates of yellow nail syndrome in people with:
- Autoimmune diseases.
- Cancer.
- Nephrotic syndrome.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- Thyroid disease.
How common is yellow nail syndrome?
Experts don’t know exactly how many people have yellow nail syndrome. But we do know the condition is rare. Medical journals have reported around 100 cases of yellow nail syndrome.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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