7 Signs to Check if You Have Nail Fungus

7 Signs to Check if You Have Nail Fungus

Oct 03

Nail fungus is also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium. This is a common condition that affects either the fingernails or toenails. But, the condition is more common in toenails than in fingernails. Nail fungus often begins as whitish or yellow-brown spots under the nail. If left untreated, it can lead to pain and damage to the nails. By identifying the signs and symptoms, you can not only treat the condition effectively, but also prevent complications. Here’s how to know if there is fungus in your nails.

7 Signs to Check if You Have Nail Fungus

1. Your nail is thick

A thickening of your nail can be a common symptom of nail fungus. When the fungus or yeast enters your nails, it causes them to grow thicker than ever. In nail fungus, the symptom is especially common in toenails. Because they are often exposed to wet areas, this can help fungus spread easily. So if your nail is rough and sturdy, you might have had nail fungus.

Other conditions that can cause thick toenails:

• Lupus
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Paronychia

2. Your nail is white

White spots on or under the nails can tell if you have nail fungus or not. Some symptoms below can mean a fungus in your nails. These are:

• A discoloration of the fingernails or toenails
• A white, powder-like texture on the nail surface

Other factors that can result in the above symptoms:

• Nail trauma or nail injury
• Poisoning and drugs
• Genetic factors
• Medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart failure and kidney diseases

So if you experience this symptom, it’s necessary to get it checked out.

Read more: The Color of Your Nails Could Say about Health

3. Your nail is yellow

When your nails turn yellow, it usually means that you have had nail fungus. It can also mean some other health problems, such as:

• Allergic reactions from dyes or harsh products
• Vitamin or mineral deficiencies
• Psoriasis
• Diabetes
• Thyroid conditions
• Yellow nail syndrome (YNS)
• Skin cancer

In nail fungus, this symptom often comes with the thickening and crumbling of the nails.

4. Your nail is lifting

If you notice the lifting at the end, edge, or sides of the nails, it means you have nail fungus. Nail lifting can affect both fingernails and toenails. It causes the nail to separate from the nail bed. In some cases, it makes the nail separate completely from the finger. Nail lifting is most common in athletes or in those people who wear tight shoes.

Other causes for nail lifting include:

• Aggressive manicures
• Nail polish uses
• Nail injuries
• Pregnancy
• Thyroid disease
• Certain medications

Read more: Nail Injuries Treatment- Everything You Need to Know

5. Your nail is crumbly

Brittle and crumbly nails are common signs to check if you have nail fungus. In this case, the entire nail plate can be affected, causing debris under the nail. It often comes with other symptoms, such as:

• Discoloration
• Thickening
• Brittleness
• Loss of luster

Sometimes, crumbly nails can be caused by:

• Ageing
• Long-term exposure to water or chemicals
• Nail psoriasis
• Thyroid disease

6. You have ever had athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that occurs in the feet. It causes itching and red, scaly rashes between the toes. In some cases, blisters or ulcers may also occur. Athlete’s foot can be mistaken for dry skin and eczema. The infection is not dangerous. But if left untreated, it can spread to the hands.

According to the doctor, if you’ve ever had athlete’s foot or you get it often, you will be likely to have nail fungus. So, check with your doctor if you think you may have the condition.

Read more: What Is Athlete’s Foot and How to Cure It in One Day

7. You have had a toenail infection recently

Toenail infections are very common. They occur when fungi or bacteria grow on or under your nail. Doctors say that if you used to have a toenail infection, you will be likely to develop nail fungus. Symptoms may look similar to nail fungus, such as:

• Painful nails
• Yellow, white or brown nails
• Thickened, crumbly nails
• Nail separating from nail bed

The above are seven signs to check if you have nail fungus. If you experience any of these signs and symptoms, you may have been infected with the condition. Nail fungus is not dangerous and it can be treated with antifungal medications. Usually, people use Fugacil cream to eliminate the fungus on their nails. This is one of the best over-the-counter antifungal creams on the market right now. Not only does Fugacil kill the fungus at its root, but it also prevent recurrence. Many people apply Fugacil and get rid of symptoms within a few days and most of them haven’t had nail fungus again. Other treatments for nail fungus include:

• Oral antifungal drugs, such as itraconazole (Sporanox) and terbinafine (Lamisil)
• Temporary removal of the nail

To get relief and prevent nail fungus at home, you can:

• Trim and thin the nails
• Apply Vicks VapoRub
• Use medicated nail polish or creams
• Wash and keep the hands and feet clean
• Avoid using nail polish and artificial nails
• Wear shoes in public spaces
• Do not pick skin around the nails
• Use antifungal spray or powder to kill fungus in shoes
• Change shoes and socks regularly

Read more: 12 Ways to Prevent another Nail Infection