How to Tell If It’s a Fungal Nail Infection (And Not Just a Damaged Toenail)

Ever looked down at your toenails and thought, “What’s going on there?” You’re not alone. Discoloured, thickened, or crumbly nails are more common than you’d think, but they’re not always just the result of knocking your toe on the bed frame or wearing tight shoes. Sometimes, the real culprit is a fungal nail infection.

Here’s how to spot the signs early, what not to ignore, and why trying to fix it with DIY treatments might not be your best move.

What a Healthy Toenail Should Look Like

Let’s start with the basics.

A healthy toenail is usually:

• Smooth
• Slightly curved
• A consistent pale pink colour (with a white edge)
• Firm to the touch
• Free of odour or debris under the nail

If your nail isn’t ticking most of these boxes, there might be something else going on.

Common Signs of a Fungal Nail Infection

Fungal nail infections don’t usually start with a bang. They creep in slowly and can easily be mistaken for regular wear and tear. But over time, the changes become more noticeable.

Here’s what to look for:

Discolouration that spreads
The nail might start to turn yellow, brown, white, or even greenish. It often begins at the tip or edge and spreads towards the base over time.

Thickening of the nail
As the fungus spreads, the nail can become significantly thicker than normal. This not only looks different but can also make it difficult to trim.

Brittle or crumbly texture
Infected nails often become weak. They might split, flake, or crumble, especially around the edges.

Distorted nail shape
The nail might start to grow in a strange direction or take on an odd shape. It can also lift away from the nail bed.

Debris under the nail
A build-up of white or yellowish matter under the nail is common. It’s usually made up of dead skin cells, fungal material, and keratin.

Unpleasant smell
Some fungal infections cause a faint but noticeable odour, especially if the nail is lifting and debris is trapped underneath.

What Causes It in the First Place?

Fungal nail infections are usually caused by dermatophytes (a type of fungus), but yeasts and moulds can be responsible too. These organisms thrive in warm, moist environments, like sweaty socks, locker rooms, public showers, and pool areas.

You’re more likely to pick up a fungal infection if you:

• Wear tight, non-breathable shoes
• Have sweaty feet or don’t change socks often
• Walk barefoot in public places
• Share nail clippers or shoes
• Have athlete’s foot that spreads to the nails
• Have a weakened immune system or diabetes

Sometimes, damage to the nail from injury or repeated pressure makes it easier for fungus to get in. Once it’s there, it can be stubborn.

When It’s Not a Fungal Infection

It’s easy to jump to conclusions, but not all nail issues are fungal. Other conditions can look similar, like:

• Psoriasis
• Eczema around the nail bed
• Trauma from running or poorly fitted shoes
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Certain medications

That’s why getting a proper diagnosis matters. Podiatrists can take a sample and confirm what’s actually causing the changes.

Why Early Treatment Makes a Difference

The earlier you catch a fungal infection, the easier it is to treat. Leave it too long and it can:

• Spread to other nails
• Cause permanent damage
• Lead to pain or discomfort when walking
• Increase the risk of secondary infections (especially for people with diabetes or circulation issues)

On top of that, the longer it’s left untreated, the harder it is to restore the nail’s appearance. Even if the infection clears, the damage can take a while to grow out—if it does at all.

This is where treatments like KeryFlex come in. It’s a professional option used by podiatrists that not only helps improve the look of damaged or infected nails, but also contains anti-fungal properties. It’s fully sterile, safe, and lasts for weeks, making it a strong option for those wanting both a healthy nail and a cosmetic boost, without the risk of infection you might find in a regular nail salon.

Don’t Rely on DIY Fixes

There’s a whole aisle in the chemist dedicated to fungal nail treatments. Creams, lacquers, oils… you name it. The problem is, these often don’t penetrate deep enough to reach the infection under the nail.

Topical treatments can work for very mild cases, but once the infection has spread into the nail bed or thickened the nail, it’s time to bring in the professionals.

Podiatrists can offer:

• Accurate diagnosis (so you’re not wasting time on the wrong thing)
• Medical-grade treatment plans
• Regular debridement to reduce thickness and fungal load
• Support for long-term nail health

And crucially, they’ll monitor your progress and adjust the treatment if needed. Something no over-the-counter product can do.

How to Reduce Your Risk in Future

Once you’ve dealt with a fungal nail infection, the last thing you want is for it to come back. Prevention is mostly about keeping things clean and dry, and avoiding places where fungus thrives.

Keep these habits in check:

• Change socks daily – and after exercise
• Let shoes air out – don’t wear the same pair two days in a row
• Use antifungal spray or powder – especially if you’re prone to sweaty feet
• Avoid going barefoot in public – pools, gyms, and shared showers are hotspots
• Clip nails straight across – and don’t cut them too short
• Don’t share footwear or nail tools – cross-contamination is real

And if you’ve had a fungal nail infection before, keep an eye on your nails. Catching changes early is half the battle.

Healthy Nails Start With Awareness

Fungal nail infections are more than a cosmetic issue. They can impact your comfort, confidence, and overall foot health. The key is knowing what to look for and acting before it gets worse.

If something seems off—whether it’s a colour change, weird texture, or a sudden thickening—it’s worth having it checked. Treatments have come a long way, and with support from a podiatrist, you’re not stuck with damaged nails forever.

Spot it early. Get the right care. And don’t underestimate how much better your feet will feel when they’re healthy again.