Fungal toenails are a common foot problem that can develop gradually. At first, you may simply notice a small change in the appearance of one toenail, but over time the nail can become thicker, discoloured, brittle and more difficult to manage.
If you have noticed changes to your toenails and are unsure what is causing them, a professional chiropody appointment in Widnes can help you understand the problem and look after your feet properly.
What Does a Fungal Toenail Look Like?
A fungal nail infection, also known as onychomycosis, can cause several noticeable changes to the toenail. Common signs include:
- Yellow, white or brown discolouration
- A toenail becoming thicker than usual
- Brittle or crumbly nail edges
- Changes to the shape or texture of the nail
- A nail becoming difficult to cut
- The nail lifting away from the nail bed
- Discomfort when wearing shoes or putting pressure on the toe
Fungal nail infections often develop slowly, so it can be easy to ignore the early signs. However, an affected nail can become increasingly thick and difficult to manage if the problem progresses.
When Should You Book a Chiropody Appointment?
You don’t have to wait until a toenail becomes painful before seeking professional foot care.
Consider booking a Widnes chiropody appointment if:
Your toenails have changed colour
A noticeable change in the colour of your toenail, particularly white, yellow or brown discolouration, can be a sign of a fungal infection. However, nail discolouration can have other causes too, so it is important not to assume every discoloured nail is fungal.
Your toenails have become thick
Thickened toenails can be difficult to cut safely at home. They may also become uncomfortable inside your shoes, particularly if there is pressure on the affected toe.
Your nails are becoming brittle or crumbly
If pieces of your toenail are breaking away or the nail has developed a crumbly texture, it may be worth having your feet professionally assessed.
Your toenails are difficult to cut
If your nails have become particularly hard or thick, a Widnes podiatrist or chiropodist can provide professional nail care and help you keep your feet comfortable. The NHS also recommends seeing a podiatrist when nails are too tough to cut or difficult to reach. (nhs.uk)
Your toenail is causing discomfort
A thickened or damaged toenail can become uncomfortable when wearing shoes or walking. If foot or toe discomfort is affecting your everyday activities, professional advice can help determine what may be causing the problem.
You have tried treatment without success
Fungal toenails can take time to treat, and improvement may not be immediate. If you’ve been treating a suspected fungal nail infection without seeing improvement, it is sensible to seek professional advice about the next steps. (nhs.uk)
Could It Be Something Other Than Fungus?
Not every thickened or discoloured toenail is caused by a fungal infection. Trauma, psoriasis and other nail conditions can also cause changes to the appearance of the nail.
This is one reason why professional assessment can be useful. If you are unsure whether your toenail is affected by fungus, don’t simply assume it is.
Looking After Your Feet
Good foot hygiene can help reduce the risk of fungal nail infections and prevent problems from spreading. Keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, wearing well-fitting footwear and treating athlete’s foot promptly can all help. It is also important not to share nail clippers, scissors, towels or footwear. (nhs.uk)
Professional Chiropody in Widnes
At Arco Healthcare Clinic, we provide professional Widnes chiropody and Widnes podiatry for a range of common foot and toenail concerns.
If you’ve noticed a change in your toenails, your nails have become thick and difficult to cut, or you’re concerned about a possible fungal nail infection, booking an appointment can be a good first step towards getting your feet properly assessed and cared for.
Don’t ignore changes to your toenails simply because they aren’t painful. Early attention can help you understand what’s happening and manage your foot health more effectively.
Looking for a chiropodist or podiatrist in Widnes? Contact Arco Healthcare Clinic to book your appointment.
For further information contact our experienced reception team or alternatively click here to book your appointment. To use your healthcare policy and claim back treatment cost check the podiatrist register with the following link.