Although there is considerable variation in what a nail fungus infection can look like, there are some common characteristics. We’ve grouped these into three main categories that are useful in illustrating the different ways the disorder can appear on the nail: (1) Color; (2) Texture and (3) Spread.
Color Changes
The most common nail discolorations are to yellow, brown or white. At times nails can even take on a slight green tinge. The discoloration can be slight especially if the fungus is located on the underside of the nail (a ‘subungal’ position) where only small opaque marks show on the top of the nail, even if the infection is moderate. It is important, therefore, to look for other signs such as debris under the nail and changes to texture.
Texture Changes
A nail infection caused by fungus normally results in some sort of nail shape distortion. The most common is a ribbed and thickened appearance to the nail. In some instances the nail can appear to crumble or peel at the edges. With advanced forms of the disease, the nail can thicken and raise to such an extent that it lifts off the nail bed.
Spread Over The Nail
Some infections start at the top or distal edge of the nail bed (i.e the tip of the nail.) If the fungus is limited to this area it tends to be relatively easy to treat. The progression then tends to run along one the side of the nail towards the crescent shape ‘lanula’ at the foot of the nail. Infections can spread to cover the entire nail. The more extensive the spread, the harder the infection to treat.
Use the above as guidelines to check for a nail fungus infection. Look out for discoloration, distortion or texture changes. But remember to confirm what you find with your doctor or medical health professional before embarking on a nail fungus treatment course.