Have you noticed that one or more of your toenails have become thick, yellow, white or discoloured? While changes to your toenails can have several causes, a fungal toenail infection could be responsible.
Fungal toenails are common and can develop gradually, meaning you may not notice the changes straight away. What starts as a small area of discolouration can eventually cause the nail to become thicker, brittle, crumbly or uncomfortable.
At Arco Healthcare Clinic, our Widnes chiropody service provides professional foot and toenail care, helping you address common nail problems before they become more difficult to manage.
What Causes Fungal Toenails?
Fungal toenail infections occur when fungi infect the nail or the skin underneath it. They can sometimes develop following athlete’s foot, as the infection can spread from the skin to the toenails.
Fungi thrive in warm, damp environments, so wearing sweaty footwear for long periods or regularly using communal changing rooms, swimming pools and showers can increase the risk.
A damaged toenail can also be more vulnerable to infection.
What Are the Signs of a Fungal Toenail?
A fungal toenail can cause several changes to the appearance and texture of the nail.
Common signs include:
- Yellow, white or brown discolouration
- Thickened toenails
- Brittle or crumbly nails
- Changes in the shape of the nail
- The nail becoming difficult to cut
- The nail separating from the nail bed
- Discomfort or pressure when wearing shoes
Fungal nail infections often develop slowly, so it is worth paying attention to any persistent changes in your toenails.
Thick Toenails Can Become Difficult to Manage
As a fungal nail infection develops, the toenail can become increasingly thick and difficult to cut.
Trying to cut very thick toenails yourself can be uncomfortable and may make it difficult to achieve a neat, safe result. Professional Widnes chiropody can help with routine nail care and the management of thickened toenails.
A chiropodist can assess the condition of your nails and advise whether further assessment or treatment may be appropriate.
Is Every Discoloured Toenail a Fungal Infection?
No. Thickened or discoloured toenails can have several different causes.
Previous injury or repeated pressure from footwear can alter the appearance of a toenail. Other skin and nail conditions can also cause similar changes.
This is why it is important not to automatically assume that a discoloured nail is fungal. If you are concerned about a change in your toenails, professional assessment can help identify the most appropriate next steps.
Can a Chiropodist Help With Fungal Toenails?
Yes. A chiropodist in Widnes can assess your feet and toenails and provide professional nail care where appropriate.
If a toenail has become thick, difficult to cut or uncomfortable, professional treatment can help you maintain the nail and keep your feet comfortable.
Depending on the suspected cause, you may also be advised to seek further treatment or speak with your GP or pharmacist about appropriate antifungal options.
When Should You Book a Chiropody Appointment?
Consider booking a Widnes chiropody appointment if:
- Your toenails have become noticeably thicker
- Your toenails have changed colour
- Your nails are becoming brittle or crumbly
- You are struggling to cut your toenails
- Your toenails are causing discomfort in your shoes
- You have persistent changes to one or more toenails
- You have athlete’s foot alongside changes to your toenails
- You are unsure what is causing your nail changes
You don’t have to wait until your toenail becomes painful before seeking professional advice.
Professional Foot Care in Widnes
At Arco Healthcare Clinic, we provide professional Widnes chiropody and Widnes podiatry for a range of common foot and toenail problems.
If you have thick, discoloured toenails, don’t ignore the changes. They could be caused by a fungal infection, but there may also be another underlying reason.
If you’re looking for a podiatrist in Widnes or professional chiropody in Widnes, contact Arco Healthcare Clinic to arrange an appointment and take the next step towards healthier, more comfortable feet.
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.
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