Thickened toenails are a common condition that can result from a variety of causes, such as fungal infections, trauma, or underlying health conditions. It can also lead to discomfort and, in some cases, pain. The condition is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as discolouration, brittleness, and even sensitivity around the affected toenail.
In some cases, individuals may also experience curved toenails as a result of the thickening process. Understanding the symptoms of thickened toenails is crucial in identifying the condition early and seeking appropriate treatment. Below are the common symptoms to look out for.
1. Nail Thickening
One of the most noticeable symptoms of thickened toenails is the actual thickening of the nail itself. This can occur gradually and may not cause immediate discomfort, but as it progresses, it can lead to pain and difficulty with daily activities.
Key Signs:
- Gradual thickening: The toenail begins to grow thicker than usual, often becoming visibly more pronounced.
- Variability in thickness: The thickness may vary, with some nails becoming only slightly thicker while others may become significantly so.
- Increased pressure: As the nail becomes thicker, it may push against the surrounding skin, causing discomfort.
2. Discolouration Of The Toenail
As the toenail becomes thickened, the colour of the nail may also change. Discolouration is often an indication of the underlying cause, such as a fungal infection or trauma.
Key Signs:
- Yellowish or brownish tinge: A common sign of fungal infections, where the nail becomes discoloured, often starting at the edges.
- White or cloudy appearance: This could indicate a fungal infection or nail trauma.
- Black spots May appear in cases of trauma or bruising under the nail.
- Opaque look: The nail may lose its natural transparency, becoming dull and cloudy.
3. Brittle Or Crumbling Nail
Thickened toenails often become more brittle or fragile. The nail may break, chip, or crumble, especially if it is affected by a fungal infection.
Key Signs:
- Cracking or splitting: As the nail becomes thicker, it may also become weaker, leading to cracks or splits along the surface.
- Uneven edges: The edges of the toenail may appear jagged and uneven.
- Flaking or crumbling: The toenail might start to crumble, particularly at the thicker sections.
- Excessive dryness: The nail can become dry and more prone to breaking.
4. Pain Or Sensitivity
Thickened toenails can cause pain or sensitivity, particularly if the nail pushes against the surrounding skin or nail bed. This is often seen when the nail has become unusually thick or when it has been affected by trauma or infection.
Key Signs:
- Pain when touched: The toenail becomes sensitive to touch, especially around the edges.
- Swelling: Inflammation around the nail may cause it to appear swollen.
- Tenderness: The area around the toenail may become tender, making it uncomfortable to wear shoes or walk.
- Pressure sensitivity: Pressure from tight-fitting shoes or socks may worsen the discomfort.
5. Nail Separation From The Nail Bed
In some cases of thickened toenails, the nail may begin to separate from the nail bed. This can be a result of a fungal infection, trauma, or another underlying issue.
Key Signs:
- Lifting of the nail: The nail begins to lift away from the nail bed, creating a gap.
- White or yellow discharge: A sign that the nail is infected, and pus or other fluids may accumulate under the nail.
- Visible gap: A clear gap forms between the nail and the nail bed, allowing debris or moisture to accumulate.
- Increased risk of infection: When the nail lifts, it can expose the underlying tissue to bacteria, making it more susceptible to infection.
6. Rough Or Irregular Nail Surface
A thickened toenail may develop a rough or irregular surface. This can occur as a result of trauma, fungal infections, or conditions like psoriasis.
Key Signs:
- Uneven texture: The surface of the nail may feel uneven to the touch, with raised ridges or bumps.
- Pitting or divots: Small pits may appear on the nail’s surface, a characteristic feature of nail psoriasis.
- Discolouration of the surface: The nail’s surface may take on a dull appearance, losing its normal smooth texture.
- Cracks and ridges: Along with thickening, the nail might show visible cracks and ridges, which can increase discomfort.
7. Ingrown Toenails
While not exclusive to thickened toenails, an ingrown toenail can occur when the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This can be exacerbated by thickened nails, leading to increased pain and inflammation.
Key Signs:
- Painful swelling: The skin around the toenail becomes inflamed and painful, particularly around the edges.
- Redness: The surrounding skin may become red, indicating infection or irritation.
- Increased pressure: As the thickened nail pushes into the skin, it causes more pressure, leading to further discomfort.
- Pus or discharge: If an infection develops, you may notice pus or discharge coming from the side of the nail.
8. Foul Odour
Thickened toenails, particularly when caused by fungal infections, can emit a foul odour due to the build-up of bacteria or fungal spores beneath the nail.
Key Signs:
- Unpleasant smell: The toenail may have an unpleasant or musty smell, which is often associated with fungal infections.
- Odour intensifies with moisture: The smell may worsen when the toenail is exposed to moisture, such as when wearing shoes or socks for long periods.
9. Difficulty In Nail Care
Thickened toenails can also make routine nail care difficult. The nail may become harder to trim or file due to its increased thickness.
Key Signs:
- Difficulty trimming: The toenail becomes harder to cut and may require more effort to trim or file.
- Increased risk of injury: Trying to trim or file a thickened toenail can lead to injury, particularly if done incorrectly.
- Discomfort while grooming: The thickened nail may cause pain or discomfort while attempting to care for it.
Conclusion
Thickened toenails can present with various symptoms, ranging from visual changes such as nail thickening and discolouration to more complex signs such as pain, sensitivity, and even nail separation. It’s essential to monitor these symptoms closely, especially if you experience discomfort or other signs of infection.
By identifying the symptoms early, you can seek treatment to address the underlying cause and prevent further complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Thickened Toenails?
Thickened toenails can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungal infections, trauma, psoriasis, poor circulation, and age-related changes. Fungal infections are one of the most common causes.
How Can I Treat Thickened Toenails At Home?
At-home treatments for thickened toenails include regular trimming, filing the nail, and applying antifungal creams if a fungal infection is suspected. In severe cases, consult a healthcare professional for more advanced treatments.
Can Thickened Toenails Be Prevented?
While it may not be possible to entirely prevent thickened toenails, maintaining good foot hygiene, wearing properly fitted shoes, and addressing any underlying health conditions can help reduce the risk.