Is my thickened yellow toenail a fungus?
Answered by the AskDoc Medical Team · Medically reviewed under our Medical Director, MBBS
Probably, but not certainly: about half of ugly toenails are fungal; the rest are psoriasis, old trauma or simple age-related thickening. Treating a non-fungal nail with months of antifungals is common and pointless.
A clipping sent for testing confirms it cheaply first. Confirmed fungus in a bothersome nail responds best to oral treatment over months; paints suit early edge disease and patience.
Trim straight across, keep feet dry, rotate shoes, and treat athlete's foot between the toes, because that is where nail fungus usually launches from. Diabetics should have nail troubles seen professionally.
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