What should you know about trim thick toenails?

A thick nail may grow slowly, crumble, change colour, or curve into the surrounding skin. Nail fungus is one possible cause, but repeated shoe pressure, an old injury, inflammatory nail psoriasis, and some skin conditions can look similar. The appearance alone cannot identify the cause. A clinician may examine the nail and, when needed, test a nail sample before recommending antifungal medicine.

Soak the foot briefly or trim after bathing, then use clean, sturdy nail clippers. Take small cuts straight across rather than digging into the corners. Do not tear the nail, share tools, or cut surrounding skin. A file can smooth sharp edges. Keep feet dry, choose shoes with room at the toes, and avoid self-treating for fungus if you have diabetes, reduced circulation, reduced sensation, or a weakened immune system. Read about Nail Fungus, Nail Psoriasis, Laser Treatment For Nail Fungus, and Oral Antifungal Treatment for possible causes and treatments.

Seek prompt medical care for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, bleeding, severe pain, or a dark mark that does not grow out with the nail. Arrange a routine review when one nail changes without an obvious injury, several nails become thick, or home trimming is unsafe.

Ask whether the nail needs testing, whether footwear or trauma may be contributing, and which trimming method is suitable for your circulation and sensation. Ask how long treatment should be continued and what change would show that the diagnosis needs revisiting.