When your toenails look thickened, discolored, or otherwise unattractive, it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that you have a fungal infection. But ugly toenails can be caused by many things, and fungal infections aren’t always to blame.
In fact, studies show that as many as 40% of ugly toenails aren’t caused by fungus at all!
So, what is causing your unsightly toenails? This article explores the many potential causes of ugly toenails not fungus, helping you understand what might be going on and how to manage the situation.
What can cause this unsightly toenail appearance?
Fungus is the most common reason for yellow, thick, or otherwise unsightly toenails, but it’s not the only reason. Here are some other potential causes:
Trauma and microtrauma
If you drop something heavy on your toe or stub it hard, you may damage the nail, causing discoloration. Also, repetitive injuries can lead to thickened and deformed nails. If you’re a runner, you may have toenail issues because of the repeated pounding of your feet.
Even if you’re not a runner, walking 10,000+ steps every day could do it.
Nail dystrophy
Nail dystrophy is a general term for abnormal nail growth or appearance. It can be caused by genetics, injury, or underlying medical conditions.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis can affect your toenails, causing pitting, thickening, and separation from the nail bed. To rule out fungus and confirm psoriasis, your doctor may need to do a biopsy.
How Do I Know If It Is Not a Fungal Infection?
First and foremost, don’t try to diagnose yourself. If you have ugly toenails, the best thing to do is see a doctor.
Typically, with a fungal infection, you’ll notice yellowing, thickening, brittleness, and debris underneath the nail.
However, there are other reasons why your toenails might look funky. You might suspect something other than fungus if:
- You have a skin condition like psoriasis.
- You injured your toenail.
- Antifungal treatments aren’t working.
To confirm or rule out a fungal infection, your doctor may perform a nail biopsy or fungal culture.
What else could be the problem?
If your toenails are ugly, but it’s not a fungus, there are still other possible reasons.
Medical conditions
Certain medical issues can affect the appearance of your toenails.
- Psoriasis. As we noted earlier, psoriasis can affect the nails and look a lot like a fungal infection.
- Eczema/dermatitis. Skin inflammation around the nails can change how they grow.
- Yellow nail syndrome. This rare condition causes nails to turn yellow and can also cause swelling in your body and respiratory issues.
Systemic diseases
Some diseases that affect your whole body can also affect your nails.
- Diabetes. Diabetes can affect circulation, which can cause nail problems.
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD reduces blood flow to your limbs, which can affect the health of your nails.
Ingrown toenails
Sometimes, the edge of your toenail can grow into the skin around it. This is called an ingrown toenail. Causes can include improper trimming, shoes that are too tight, and the natural shape of your nail.
Prevention and management of non-fungal toenail problems
Even if your ugly toenails aren’t caused by a fungus, you’ll probably want to take care of them. Here are a few strategies you can try:
Proper nail care
- Trimming: Cut your toenails straight across the top to avoid ingrown toenails.
- Hygiene: Wash your feet regularly and make sure to dry them thoroughly to avoid bacterial infections.
Footwear
- Proper fit: Wear shoes that fit well and don’t squeeze your toes.
- Breathable materials: Choose shoes made of breathable materials that help reduce moisture around your feet.
Underlying conditions
- Medical management: Work with your healthcare team to manage underlying conditions like psoriasis or diabetes.
- Topical treatments: A doctor may prescribe topical corticosteroids for psoriasis or eczema affecting your toenails.
Protect against trauma
- Protective footwear: When you’re doing activities that could injure your toes, wear appropriate footwear.
- Padding: If you’re on your feet a lot, try using padding or cushions to protect your toes from repetitive pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do B12 deficiency nails look like?
B12 deficiency can manifest in nails as changes in color (often pale or bluish), longitudinal dark streaks, and brittleness. You might also notice rounded nail ends or increased curvature. However, nail changes can be caused by various conditions, so it’s essential to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis.
What can be mistaken for toenail fungus?
Several conditions can mimic toenail fungus, including nail psoriasis, trauma to the nail bed, bacterial infections, yeast infections, and certain systemic diseases. Even simple aging can cause changes in nail appearance that resemble fungal infections. Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment.
Can ugly toenails be fixed?
Whether ugly toenails can be “fixed” depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is fungal, manuka oil could be a potential treatment. If the issue stems from a treatable condition like psoriasis or a B12 deficiency, addressing the root cause can improve nail appearance. Cosmetic procedures like nail reconstruction can also help, but they don’t treat the underlying condition.
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
Complete eradication of toenail fungus can be challenging. Oral antifungal medications are often the most effective, but they have potential side effects. Topical treatments have a lower success rate. Laser therapy is another option, but its long-term efficacy is still under investigation. Recurrence is possible even with successful treatment.
How do you fix disfigured toenails?
Fixing disfigured toenails depends on the cause and severity. Options range from trimming and filing to surgical removal of the nail. Nail reconstruction using acrylics or gels can improve appearance, but if an infection develops, prompt removal may be necessary. If the disfigurement is due to an underlying condition, addressing that condition is crucial for long-term improvement.
Putting It All Together
Ugly toenails can have a lot of different causes. If you’re concerned about the appearance of your toenails, it’s important to see a doctor and get an accurate diagnosis so you can start the right treatment.
Taking a holistic approach to foot health, including proper nail care, wearing well-fitting shoes, and treating any underlying medical conditions, can help keep your feet healthy and looking their best. By understanding the potential causes of ugly toenails, you can take steps to maintain healthy and attractive feet.