What Are the Symptoms of Nail Fungus?

The infection often starts at the edge or tip of a nail and may gradually extend towards the base. The nail can become opaque, ridged, rough, or difficult to trim. Debris may collect underneath it, and the nail may lift away from the skin. One or several toenails may be affected; fingernails can also change. Athlete's Foot can occur at the same time and may cause scaling or itching between the toes. These signs are not specific: injury, eczema, psoriasis, and other conditions can also cause Discoloured Nails, Thickened Nails, or brittle nails.

Book an assessment when a nail stays altered or the changes spread to other nails. A clinician may examine the nail and take a sample before recommending treatment, because antifungal medicines are not suitable for every cause of nail change. Keep nails short and dry, avoid sharing clippers, wear breathable footwear, and treat associated foot skin as advised. Options may include Laser Treatment For Nail Fungus or, in selected cases, Nail Surgery.

Seek prompt care for increasing pain, swelling, pus, spreading redness, fever, or a nail that becomes acutely detached. People with diabetes, poor circulation, reduced immunity, or repeated foot wounds should arrange assessment early when a nail changes. A dark streak, bleeding area, or rapidly changing single nail also needs examination rather than being assumed to be fungus.

Ask whether testing is needed, whether the change is Nail Fungus or Nail Separation from another cause, how long treatment may take, and how to prevent reinfection in footwear and other nails.