A fungal toenail infection can make a nail become thick, discolored, brittle, crumbly, or distorted. Nail trauma and several other nail conditions can look similar, so the appearance of the nail alone does not always confirm a fungal infection.
When to Request an Evaluation
- Nail changes that are painful, worsening, or spreading to other nails
- Difficulty trimming a thick or distorted nail
- Uncertainty about whether the change is fungal, traumatic, or another nail condition
- Nail changes in a person with diabetes or poor circulation
Common Symptoms
These symptoms can also occur with other foot or ankle problems. An examination can help the doctor identify the cause.
- Yellow, white, brown, or cloudy nail color
- Thickening or change in nail shape
- Brittle or crumbly nail edges
- Debris under the nail or separation from the nail bed
How the Doctor Evaluates Your Concern
Foot and ankle symptoms can have more than one cause. The doctor considers your symptoms, health history, and examination findings, then explains what the findings mean and what may come next. She discusses testing, procedures, or additional care only when the evaluation indicates they may be appropriate.
Things That Can Contribute
- Repeated exposure to warm, damp environments
- Previous fungal skin infection
- Nail injury or repeated shoe pressure
- Age and certain medical conditions