Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition. It’s estimated that up to 14% of adults have it. For most people, toenail fungus is simply a cosmetic issue. But, for others, it can cause pain and discomfort, so it’s important to file fungus toenails away with the right options, risks and prevention methods.
Because of the way fungal infections change the appearance of toenails, many people wonder, “what do fungus nails look like?” This article will provide a description of the many different ways toenail fungus can appear. It also offers related information you might find helpful if you think you might have an infection.
It’s important to remember that many other conditions can mimic toenail fungus. So, this article is not a substitute for an appointment with a podiatrist or other healthcare provider. If you think you have toenail fungus, a professional diagnosis is essential to make sure you get the right treatment.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus is a fungal infection of the nail, also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium. These terms all mean the same thing. It’s usually caused by dermatophytes, which are fungi that thrive on skin, hair, and nails.
The most common culprits behind toenail fungus are a couple of dermatophytes called Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Fun names, right? Now, let’s get into what toenail fungus actually looks like.
What do different types of toenail fungus look like?
Toenail fungus isn’t just one thing. There are different kinds, and they look different.
Subungual Onychomycosis
This is the most common type of toenail fungus. The word “subungual” means “under the nail,” which tells you a lot about where this fungus likes to hang out.
Here’s what it looks like:
- It usually starts as a white or yellow spot under your toenail.
- Over time, the nail gets thicker and more brittle. It might start to crumble or break easily.
- The nail can start to separate from the nail bed. This is called onycholysis.
- You might see debris building up under the nail. It can be kind of gross.
- Sometimes, it can cause pain or discomfort, especially if the nail gets really thick.
White Superficial Onychomycosis
This type is less common than subungual onychomycosis, but it’s still out there. It’s caused by different fungi, too.
Here’s what to look for:
- You’ll see white spots or patches on the surface of the nail. Unlike subungual onychomycosis, this one doesn’t start underneath.
- The nail surface itself might become soft and crumbly.
The good news is that this type is often easier to treat because it’s on the surface of the nail, not hiding underneath.
Candida Onychomycosis
This is a less common type of toenail fungus, and it usually shows up in people who have weakened immune systems. It’s linked to yeast infections and spending a lot of time in wet environments.
Here’s what it looks like:
- The nail might be thickened and discolored. The color can be yellow, brown, or even green.
- The nail can be inflamed.
- It often affects all of the nails, not just one or two.
- You might also have paronychia, which is inflammation of the skin around the nail (the nail folds).
Risk Factors for Toenail Fungus
Certain things make you more likely to get a toenail fungus. Some common risk factors include:
- Nail or foot deformities
- Trauma to the nail (like stubbing your toe)
- Diabetes
- A weakened immune system
- Poor circulation
- Older age
- Athlete’s foot
- Wearing shoes that don’t breathe well
- Excessive sweating
These factors increase your risk in a few ways. For example, nail deformities or trauma can create cracks or openings where fungus can enter. Diabetes and poor circulation can weaken your immune system’s ability to fight off infection, while occlusive footwear and excessive sweating create a warm, moist environment where fungus thrives. Athlete’s foot can easily spread to the toenails.
Sometimes, what looks like a fungal infection can actually be a combination of both a fungus and bacteria! That’s why it’s so important to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional. They can determine exactly what’s going on and recommend the right treatment.
Treatment options
Fungus nails don’t usually go away on their own. But treatment can be a long process. It can take months or even a year for nails to look clear again. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend removing the nail completely.
Home remedies
Some people try to treat fungus nails at home. But most of the time, these treatments only help for a little while. It’s always a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional before trying any home remedies, including using rubbing alcohol as a potential cure.
Some home remedies people try include:
- Over-the-counter antifungal liquids and creams
- Filing off white marks on the nail
- Using creams that soften the nail
Prescription medications
Prescription medications are more powerful and more likely to get rid of the fungus for good.
Some topical antifungal medications that you put directly on the nail include:
- Amorolfine
- Ciclopirox
- Efinaconazole
- Tavaborole
Oral antifungal medications that you take by mouth include:
- Terbinafine
- Fluconazole
- Itraconazole
If you think you have a fungus nail, it’s important to get a diagnosis from a lab. This can help your doctor figure out exactly which fungus is causing the infection so they can prescribe the right medication. If you use the wrong treatment, it might not work, and the fungus could get worse.
Other conditions that look like toenail fungus
It’s important to know that other conditions can mimic toenail fungus. A professional should examine your toenail to rule out other health issues before you start treatment.
Here are a few conditions that may resemble toenail fungus:
- Psoriasis
- Nail trauma
- Lichen planus
- Eczema
- Skin cancer
Starting treatment for toenail fungus when you don’t have it could delay your path to getting the proper treatment for the real underlying issue.
Is toenail fungus contagious?
Yes, toenail fungus is contagious. It can spread from one toenail to another, or even to other parts of your body. You can also spread it to other people through direct contact.
Fungal infections spread easily, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them. This includes wearing shoes in public showers and locker rooms, keeping your feet clean and dry, and not sharing nail clippers or files with others. You also need to be aware of nail fungus risks from pedicures, so if you suspect you have toenail fungus, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
How to Prevent Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is unpleasant, but you can take steps to avoid it! Here’s how:
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- Trim your toenails regularly.
- Choose breathable shoes and socks.
- Don’t share nail clippers or other personal items.
- Wear sandals or flip-flops in public showers and locker rooms.
- Disinfect socks and shoes.
- Treat athlete’s foot promptly (fungus can spread!).
- Avoid polishing infected toenails (this can trap moisture and spread the fungus).
- Sterilize equipment used on nails.
You may be wondering why toenail infections are more common than fingernail infections. Well, your toes spend most of their time trapped in warm, dark, moist environments (your shoes!). That creates the perfect breeding ground for fungus. Plus, toenails grow more slowly than fingernails, so it takes longer for an infection to clear up.
When to see a healthcare provider
If you think you have a fungal nail infection, it’s a good idea to see a doctor in the following situations:
- Your at-home treatments aren’t working.
- The infection is painful or getting worse.
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
Summary
Toenail fungus can look different depending on the type of fungus causing the infection. It can cause your nails to turn yellow, white, or brown. It can also cause them to thicken, crumble, or separate from the nail bed.
Because other conditions can cause changes to your nails, it’s important to see a doctor for a diagnosis if you think you have a fungal infection. A doctor can take a sample of your nail and test it to determine the cause of your nail changes. A doctor can also help you decide on the best treatment option.
The best way to avoid toenail fungus is to practice good foot hygiene and avoid going barefoot in public places.