Nail fungus, or also known as onychomycosis, is a common yet frequently overlooked condition affecting millions worldwide. It can be more than just an aesthetic issue—it may cause discomfort and pain. 

Fungal nail usually begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the infection goes deeper, it may cause your nail to discolor, thicken, and crumble at the edge. It can affect several nails, and will gradually infect all of them if left untreated.

Understanding the indicators of nail fungus is crucial for early detection and taking immediate action.

In this blog, we'll explore the most common signs of nail fungus and what you can do if you suspect you have this condition.

                                     

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 Spotting Nail Fungus: Key Signs to Watch For

1. Discoloration of the Nail

• What to Look For: Nails may exhibit a variety of colors, most commonly turning yellow, brown, or white. This change in color can occur in one part of the nail and spread slowly to other areas.

• Why It Happens: The fungi responsible for the infection produce pigments as they degrade keratin, the protein that forms the nail's structure. The discoloration is a result of this degradation process.

• Additional Note: If only a small spot appears discolored and does not change or spread, it may be due to a bruise or other non-fungal causes.

2. Thickening of the Nail

• What to Look For: The nail becomes abnormally thick and may feel rigid or hard to the touch. This thickening can make normal trimming challenging.

• Why It Happens: As fungal organisms multiply, they can disrupt normal nail growth. The infection leads to an accumulation of debris under the nail, contributing to increased thickness.

• Additional Note: Thickened nails can make wearing shoes uncomfortable and may increase the risk of further injury to the nail and toe.

3. Brittleness and Crumbling

• What to Look For: Nails that easily break, chip, or crumble at the edges. The nail may also appear ragged or uneven.

• Why It Happens: The integrity of the nail is compromised as the fungus breaks down keratin, leading to weak spots that can easily fracture.

• Additional Note: Brittle nails are not always a sign of fungal infection; aging and exposure to harsh chemicals can also cause similar symptoms.

4. Change in Nail Shape

• What to Look For: Nails may become curved or bent, developing an irregular shape. This warping can affect how the nail aligns with the nail bed and surrounding skin.

• Why It Happens: Fungal infections can cause the nail to grow more slowly or unevenly, which might result in a distorted shape as parts of the nail are affected differently.

• Additional Note: Such deformities can exacerbate the discomfort and pain, particularly when pressure is applied, such as in tight shoes.

5. Foul Odor

• What to Look For: A noticeable and unpleasant smell emanating from one or more nails, typically more pronounced after removing shoes and socks.

• Why It Happens: This odor is often due to secondary bacterial infections that can occur alongside the fungus, which can produce noxious smells as they proliferate.

• Additional Note: Keeping feet clean and dry can help manage this symptom, though treatment of the underlying fungal and bacterial infections is necessary for complete resolution.

6. Pain and Discomfort

• What to Look For: Discomfort or pain around the nail area, particularly when doing activities that put pressure on the affected nails, like walking, running, or even wearing shoes.

• Why It Happens: As the nail thickens and becomes misshapen, it can press against the inside of your shoes or create tension in the nail bed, leading to pain.

• Additional Note: Pain is a sign that the infection may be worsening or spreading deeper into the nail bed and surrounding tissues, warranting prompt medical attention.

7. Spreads to Other Nails

• What to Look For: The infection starting in one nail and gradually appearing in adjacent nails. You might notice similar symptoms of discoloration, thickening, or brittleness developing in nearby nails, spreading from fingernails to toenails or vice versa.

• Why It Happens: Fungal infections can easily spread through direct contact or via contaminated surfaces, tools, or footwear. If one nail is infected, the fungus can find its way to other nails if preventative measures are not taken.

• Additional Note: Preventing spread is crucial; maintaining good hygiene and treating the initial infected nail promptly can help contain the fungus and reduce the risk of it affecting other nails.

Bonus: Stop Nail Fungus in Its Tracks

If you suspect that you or a loved one has nail fungus, it’s crucial to act swiftly. Prompt treatment helps prevent the infection from worsening or spreading. Our Fungal Nail Treatment Medical Strength Antifungal Solution is a clinically proven treatment for tackling nail fungus efficiently.

                                   

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• Clinically Proven Antifungal Ingredient: This treatment is formulated with Tolnaftate 1% to quickly target and eliminate nail fungus.
• Promotes Healing: Enhanced with natural oils, it nurtures the nail bed and promotes the growth of healthy nails.
• Prevents Recurrence: Regular use helps keep future infections at bay.

Conclusion

Recognizing and addressing symptoms early is crucial for effective treatment and preventing further spread of nail fungus. Maintaining proper hygiene and monitoring for signs of infection are key steps towards healthy nails. Choose treatments designed to tackle the condition head-on, providing a safe and effective path to recovery. Don't let onychomycosis hold you back from enjoying healthy nails.