Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people. It occurs when fungi enter the toenail through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin and begin to grow.
While toenail fungus often starts as a cosmetic concern, it can become more serious over time, leading to discomfort, pain, and difficulty with daily activities.
Understanding the symptoms can help you recognize the problem early and determine when it’s time to see a Centerville podiatrist at Sunshein Podiatry.
How Toenail Fungus Usually Begins
Toenail fungus typically starts gradually and may only affect a single toenail at first. In the early stages, symptoms are often mild and easy to overlook. Many people assume nail changes are caused by aging, minor injuries, or pressure from shoes. However, fungal infections tend to worsen without treatment. Because toenails grow slowly, changes may develop over months, allowing the infection to spread deeper into the nail or to nearby nails before it is noticed.
Anyone can develop toenail fungus, but certain factors increase the risk. These include older age, excessive sweating, walking barefoot in public areas such as locker rooms or swimming pools, wearing tight or poorly ventilated shoes, and having a history of athlete’s foot. Medical conditions such as diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system can also make someone more susceptible and may increase the risk of complications if the infection is left untreated.
What Are the Most Common Signs of Toenail Fungus?
The most noticeable symptoms of toenail fungus involve changes in the nail’s appearance and texture. Common signs include:
- Nail discoloration. One of the earliest indicators of toenail fungus is a change in color. The nail may turn yellow, white, brown, or even greenish. Discoloration often begins at the tip or edges of the nail and gradually spreads toward the base.
- Thick nails. Infected toenails frequently become thicker than normal. Thick nails can be difficult to trim and may feel uncomfortable or painful when wearing shoes.
- Brittle, crumbly, or ragged nails. As the fungus damages the nail structure, the nail may crack, chip, or crumble, particularly along the edges.
- Distorted nail shape. Over time, the nail can lose its natural shape and become misshapen or uneven.
- Dull or cloudy appearance. Healthy nails are usually smooth and slightly translucent. A fungal infection can make the nail look opaque, dull, or lifeless.
What Other Symptoms Can Occur With Toenail Fungus?
In addition to visible nail changes, toenail fungus can cause other symptoms that affect comfort and hygiene.
- Nail separation. Nail separation from the nail bed, known as onycholysis, occurs when the nail lifts away from the skin underneath, creating space for debris and additional fungi to collect.
- Build up beneath the nail. You may notice white, yellow, or chalky buildup beneath the nail
- Odor. Some fungal infections cause a noticeable odor due to the accumulation of fungal material under the nail.
- Pain. While toenail fungus is not always painful, advanced infections can cause soreness or pressure, especially when thick nails rub against shoes or press on nearby toes.
When to See a Centerville Podiatrist
While mild nail changes may seem harmless, it’s important to seek professional care if symptoms persist or worsen. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose toenail fungus, often using a physical exam or laboratory testing to confirm that a fungal infection is causing the nail changes.
You should consider seeing our Centerville podiatrists at Sunshein Podiatry if nail discoloration, thickening, or crumbling continues to spread, the nail becomes painful, swollen, or difficult to trim safely, or more than one toenail is affected. Professional evaluation is especially important if you have diabetes, nerve damage, or circulation problems, as these conditions increase your risk of complications.
Additionally, if over-the-counter treatments have not improved the condition after consistent use, a podiatrist can provide stronger prescription options and advanced therapies to address the underlying infection.
Why Early Treatment for Toenail Fungus Is Important
Toenail fungus rarely goes away on its own. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other nails or surrounding skin, permanently damage the nail, or increase the risk of secondary bacterial infections. Treatment options may include prescription topical medications, oral antifungal drugs, or in-office treatments recommended by your podiatrist.
Early treatment often leads to better results and can prevent long-term nail deformities. A Centerville podiatrist can develop a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of the infection, your overall health, and your lifestyle.