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Pediatric Foot Care

Toenail Fungus

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for toenail fungus, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Pediatric Foot Care

Understanding toenail fungus and your options.

Toenail fungus is an infection that grows in and under the nail. Over time, the nail can change color and become thick or brittle. It spreads slowly and can affect one nail or several.

It is more common as we get older and in people who have athlete's foot. Many people first notice how the nail looks. Early care may make treatment easier.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Toenail Fungus care

Symptoms

Signs of toenail fungus.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Yellow, white, or brown color in the nail

  • 02

    Nails that thicken and are hard to trim

  • 03

    Crumbly or brittle nail edges

  • 04

    Slight odor or discomfort in shoes

Why it happens

What can cause toenail fungus.

  • 01

    Fungus that enters through tiny nail cracks

  • 02

    Athlete's foot on the same foot

  • 03

    Warm, damp, closed shoes

  • 04

    Walking barefoot in public wet areas

Care groupPediatric Foot Care

Diagnosis and care

How we treat toenail fungus.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We examine the nail and ask how long it has looked this way. Other problems like psoriasis, injury, or nail damage can look alike. To confirm fungus, we may take a small nail clipping to test.

Step 2 · Treatment

Treatment depends on how much of the nail is affected. Options include medicated nail products, prescription treatment, and careful trimming and thinning of the nail. Keeping feet dry and switching shoes daily helps. Treating athlete's foot at the same time lowers the chance of it returning.

Surgery is rarely used. In severe or painful cases, a minor procedure may be considered to remove part of the nail.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Nails grow slowly, so it can take many months to see clear new growth. Fungus can return, and results vary from person to person.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if a nail turns thick, discolored, or painful. Come in soon if you have diabetes, since nail problems can lead to skin breakdown.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Pediatric Foot Care.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Why does treatment take so long?

Toenails grow slowly, so the healthy nail needs many months to replace the damaged part.

Can nail polish hide the fungus?

Polish may hide the look but does not treat it. It can also trap moisture, so ask us before using it.

Get help with toenail fungus.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Toenail Fungus care at 15 clinics.

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