Problem nails
Problem nails is a descriptive term for several conditions causing pain, deformity, discolouration or thickening, rather than a single diagnosis. We assess the cause before choosing care.
Have you noticed these changes?
Review changes in nail thickness, shape, color and surface to understand possible causes.
Changes in thickness and shape
Thick or curved nails may be difficult to trim and uncomfortable in shoes.
Changes in colour and surface
Discolouration, splitting and crumbling can have different causes.
Similar symptoms can have different causes
We consider repeated pressure or injury, nail shape and possible fungal infection. Appearance alone does not determine treatment.
Nail clinic care
From assessment to ongoing care
Review nail changes and surrounding skin before discussing tests and care.
- 1
Examine the nail and skin
We assess colour, thickness, shape and pain or inflammation around the nail.
- 2
Assess possible causes
We consider fungal infection, ingrown nails, repeated pressure, injury and grooming habits.
- 3
Tests when indicated
Tests for fungal infection may be considered when a fungal nail infection is suspected.
- 4
Plan individual care
Treatment and care are selected according to the diagnosis, symptoms and general health.
- 5
Care and recurrence prevention
We explain nail trimming, footwear and foot hygiene.
Continue care after treatment
While the nail grows, review drying, pressure and trimming habits.
Dry your feet
Dry feet after washing, keep socks clean and reduce damp conditions in shoes and socks.
Reduce pressure
Choose ventilated footwear and review sources of repeated pressure.
Avoid aggressive trimming
Do not cut nails excessively short or tear at deformed areas.
Keep tools personal
Keep nail tools clean and avoid sharing them.
FAQ
If a toenail becomes thick and yellow, is it always fungus?
Not every thick, yellow nail is fungal. Repeated pressure from shoes, injury and conditions such as psoriasis can cause similar changes. It is better to confirm the cause before using medication based on appearance alone.
Can fingernails get fungus too?
Yes, fingernails can also develop fungal infections. They may turn cloudy or thick, or crumble or lift at the tip. Frequent contact with water and detergents or nail salon treatments can also damage fingernails, so the two need to be told apart.
I have a dark vertical line on my nail. Is it fungus?
A dark line can result from pigment changes or injury, but it should not be assumed to be fungus. If a new line widens, becomes irregular in colour, or the surrounding skin darkens, a dermatology evaluation is needed. Rarely it can be related to a nail tumour, so it is important to check changes.
Will the nail return to its original shape after treatment?
Even when the infection improves, the shape may not fully recover because of injury, long-standing deformity or damage to the area that makes the nail. Clearing the fungal infection and normalising the nail's appearance should be considered separately.
If my fingernails keep splitting or lifting, should I take supplements?
Nutrition is not the only cause. Repeated contact with water and detergents, injury, nail salon treatments, skin conditions and infection also need to be considered. First reduce damage, and if changes persist or appear on several nails, check the cause. Decide on supplements accordingly.
Related care information
Explore the clinic process and answers to related nail questions.
Nail clinic overview
We distinguish ingrown nails, thickening or discoloration, and recurrent inflammation before discussing care.
Nail treatment
Care proceeds through examination, cause assessment, indicated testing, individual treatment, and recurrence prevention
Nail FAQ
Not every thick nail is fungal, and an ingrown nail does not always require removal
Discuss the approach that fits your condition
Discuss the potential benefits and limitations before deciding on a care plan.
When it hurts, Dr. Anapa
Face or pain, we start by finding out why. Book by phone or online.