What's Causing Issues With Your Big Toenails?
It's common to notice changes in the appearance of your toenails over time. Thickening, discoloration, or irregularities are often seen, especially in the big toenails.
While toenail fungus is a frequent culprit, there are other potential causes of big toenail problems worth understanding.
Common Big Toenail Abnormalities
Some key signs to watch for include:
- Yellow, brown, black, or white discolorations
- Detached, raised or thickened nail
- Crumbling, ragged or distorted nail
- Debris accumulating under nail
- Reddish streaks in surrounding skin
Pay attention if any abnormality affects both big toenails rather than just one.
Is It Nail Fungus?
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is the most likely culprit behind problematic big toenails. Over 10% of adults suffer from this stubborn fungal infection.
Common Causes
Fungus can take hold if:- Toenails sustain minor trauma that allows spores entry
- Feet are frequently moist and warm in socks/shoes
- Immune health declines with age or medical condition
- Microbes spread from infected friends/family members
Once established, the fungus eats away at the nail bed and plate. As it progresses, increasing visible damage ensues.
Treatment Options
Treating stubborn fungal toenail infections requires patience. Oral medications, topical solutions, laser therapy or removal of the nail may be necessary. Work with your doctor to devise an effective treatment plan.
When It's Not Just Nail Fungus
In some cases, significant toenail abnormalities result from other underlying medical conditions. Being aware of these other possibilities is important for proper diagnosis and management.
Psoriasis
Skin affected by psoriasis can extend under the nail, triggering changes like:
- Pitting, crumbling or loosening of nails
- Discoloration with white, yellow or brown
- Nail separating from bed
- Reddish rash around skin near nails
Topical steroids, oral medications or injections may be used for treatment.
Chronic Injury or Trauma
Repeated injury to toenails can cause irregular thickening or distortion. Ill-fitted shoes pressing on nails frequently prompts this. Seek proper footwear and padding to prevent recurrence.
Skin Cancer
In rare cases, melanoma or other skin cancers arise under nails. Warning signs differ by cancer type but may include:
- Dark vertical streak extending from cuticle
- Band of pigmentation emerging from nail base
- New grooves, pits or fissures in nail plate
- Widened split down through nail
An immediate biopsy is necessary to guide appropriate treatment.
When to Seek Help for Toenail Issues
Schedule an appointment with your doctor or podiatrist if you notice any of the following:
- Injury caused nail separation from bed
- Discoloration and thickening affects both big toes
- You have psoriasis with accompanying nail changes
- Nail appearance continues worsening despite antifungal treatment
- You have significant pain or discomfort
Professional evaluation can determine whether an underlying health condition requires treatment beyond basic nail fungus care.
Restoring Healthy Looking Toenails
Don't resign yourself to ugly thickened big toenails. Whether caused by fungus or another issue, today's options offer hope.
With your doctor's help, you can pinpoint the cause and craft a treatment plan to get your toes looking good again.
FAQs
Can I just use over-the-counter medications to treat toenail issues?
Only use OTC antifungal treatments if you're sure fungus is the cause. See your doctor first for an accurate diagnosis, especially if abnormalities affect both big toes.
How long will it take to regrow a healthy big toenail?
It can take 9 months to a year for a detached or removed toenail to fully regrow. Proper care and follow-up treatment helps ensure the new nail comes in stronger.
Are there home remedies to try first before seeing a doctor?
Soaking the nail in white vinegar, vitamin E oil or an antiseptic may temporarily help early fungus. But medical treatment is still recommended for persistent or severe cases.
Can I just remove the problematic part of my big toenail?
You should not attempt to remove a toenail or pieces yourself. See a podiatrist to discuss whether partial or complete nail removal is warranted as part of a treatment plan.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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