Signs and Symptoms

The fungal infection generally starts in a single toenail and progresses to adjacent nails over time. A portion of or the entire nail will have a yellow, white, or brownish discoloration with thickening of the nail plate and crumbly debris underneath. Increased thickness of the nail can cause increased pressure on the toes while wearing shoes or when walking. The infected nail may separate from the underlying skin of the nail bed, or pinch into the skin surrounding the nail, which can lead to secondary bacterial infection. Fungal nails are often very difficult to trim and require the assistance of a foot and ankle specialist.