Nail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common condition primarily affecting toenails but also occurring on fingernails. This infection alters the nail’s appearance. Recognizing its visual characteristics is important. This article clarifies the signs of nail fungus.
Key Visual Signs
A noticeable sign of fungal nail infection is color change. Nails may turn yellow, white, brown, or black, often appearing cloudy or streaky. Discoloration commonly begins at the nail’s edge, spreading inward toward the cuticle as the infection progresses.
Beyond color changes, nail texture often alters significantly. Infected nails thicken, becoming difficult to trim. They can also become brittle, crumbly, or ragged, with pieces breaking off easily.
Nail shape and structure may also distort. Nails can appear misshapen, warped, or wavy, losing their smooth, natural look. In advanced cases, the nail may lift away from the nail bed (onycholyis), creating a space underneath where debris can collect. The nail surface might also lose its natural luster, appearing dull.
Progression and Variations
Nail fungus appearance evolves from early to advanced stages. Initially, signs are subtle, such as slight yellow, whitish, or brownish discoloration, mild nail thickening, or subtle lifting of the nail bed. These early changes may not cause pain or discomfort.
As the infection progresses, visual symptoms become more pronounced. In moderate stages, discoloration and thickening intensify; nails may become more brittle or crumbly. Advanced stages can lead to severe nail thickening, significant discoloration, and substantial structural changes, potentially causing nearly complete nail detachment and chronic pain.
Different fungal infection types present with varied visual characteristics. Dermatophyte infections, the most common cause, result in yellowing, browning, and thickening of the nail, often with crumbling edges. White superficial onychomycosis primarily affects the nail surface, appearing as white, powdery spots that can cause the nail to crumble. Yeast infections, caused by Candida, may present with whitish-yellow discoloration, swelling around the nail fold, and potential nail destruction in severe cases.
Conditions That Mimic Nail Fungus
Several other nail conditions visually resemble fungal infections, making accurate identification challenging without professional assessment. Nail trauma, such as repetitive pressure or a single impact, can cause discoloration, thickening, and even lifting of the nail, similar to fungal symptoms. Trauma often results in a dark spot or bruise under the nail and heals as the nail grows out.
Nail psoriasis shares visual similarities with nail fungus, including thickening, discoloration, and crumbling. Nail psoriasis often features small dents or pits on the nail surface, and may also present with “oil spots” (yellowish or brownish patches under the nail). Psoriasis can also cause the nail to separate from the nail bed, but this is accompanied by other signs like pitting.
Bacterial infections can also alter nail appearance, causing green or black discoloration. Unlike fungal infections, bacterial infections often lead to redness, swelling, and pain around the nail, sometimes with pus or discharge. Less common look-alikes include nutritional deficiencies or benign growths, which can also cause nail changes mistaken for fungus.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Given visual similarities between nail fungus and other conditions, professional medical advice is recommended for accurate diagnosis. A healthcare provider can confirm if nail changes are due to a fungal infection or another underlying issue. This is important because treatments vary significantly depending on the cause.
Consult a healthcare provider if nail symptoms worsen, cause pain, or interfere with daily activities like walking. Individuals with underlying health conditions like diabetes or a compromised immune system should seek prompt medical attention for any nail changes, as they may be at higher risk for complications. A professional can also discuss appropriate treatment options, including oral medications, topical treatments, or other interventions.