Nail Treatment for Fungal Infections: What You Should Know

Fungal infection can make a nail yellow, white or brown, thicker, brittle or separated from the nail bed. It often starts at an edge and may involve one or several nails. Athlete's foot can provide a source of fungus around the toes, so the skin between the toes should be checked as well. Trauma and nail psoriasis can produce similar changes. A clinician may examine the nail and take a clipping or scraping before treatment, because an antifungal will not correct a non-fungal cause.

Keep the nail short, dry feet carefully after washing, change damp socks and avoid sharing towels or nail tools. Wear breathable footwear and treat coexisting athlete's foot if present. [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) is applied directly and may suit selected, limited infections. [Oral Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antifungal-therapy/) reaches the growing nail through the bloodstream and requires a clinician to review medicines, liver health and monitoring. [Laser Treatment For Nail Fungus](/treatments/laser-and-energy/laser-nail-fungus-treatment/) may be offered in some clinics. [Nail Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/nail-surgery/) is reserved for selected damaged or painful nails and does not replace treating fungus.

Seek care if a nail remains discoloured or thick, spreads to other nails, becomes painful, or makes walking difficult. Prompt assessment is sensible for redness, warmth, swelling or drainage. Arrange early advice if you have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced immunity. A nail that changes despite treatment may need repeat examination and testing rather than repeated self-treatment.

Can you confirm fungus with a nail sample? Is the infection limited enough for a topical medicine? Would an oral medicine be suitable with my current medicines? Should I treat athlete's foot too? How can I reduce reinfection at home?