What do discoloured nails feel like with green nail syndrome?

Most people with Green Nail Syndrome notice discoloured nails, often with a green, blue-green, or yellow-green area beneath part of the nail. The nail may lift from its bed, feel loose, or trap moisture underneath. Some people notice tenderness or an unpleasant smell, while others have no pain.

The colour reflects a change beneath or within the nail and does not by itself establish the cause. Trauma, other infections, nail products, and skin conditions can alter nail colour. A clinician can inspect the nail, surrounding skin, and any separation.

Keep the nail clean and dry, trim only loose free edges, and avoid picking or covering it with polish or artificial material. Wear protective gloves for prolonged contact with water or cleaning products. Do not share nail tools, and clean tools between uses.

Arrange an assessment if the colour persists, spreads, or returns. Treatment may involve addressing moisture, nail separation, or an infection identified during examination. More detail is available in [Discoloured Nails](/symptoms/nail-discoloration/).

Seek medical review for increasing pain, redness, swelling, pus, warmth, fever, or a nail that becomes markedly loose. Get earlier advice if you have diabetes, reduced circulation, or a weakened immune system. Prompt assessment also helps when several nails change or the colour follows an injury.

Ask whether the nail is lifting, whether a sample is needed, how long to keep it dry, and which symptoms suggest infection of the surrounding skin. Tell the clinician about wet work, nail enhancements, recent injury, and products used on the nail.