Thick toenails


Thick toenails: causes, symptoms, and treatment

A thick toenail can cause discomfort, especially when wearing shoes. The nail feels harder than normal, grows more slowly, and may change color. To treat it effectively, you first need to know the cause. Below you’ll find the possible causes, how to recognize them, and what you can do.

What is a thickened toenail?

A thickened nail is thicker than a normal nail and often feels more rigid. The texture may become rough or uneven. The nail can curve or partially detach. In many cases, discoloration also occurs, ranging from yellow to brown or green.

Causes of thick toenails

One of the most common causes is a fungal infection. This damages the nail structure, making the nail thick, brittle, and sometimes painful. This is often referred to as a fungal nail.

Trauma to the toe, for example from sports or wearing shoes that are too tight, can also lead to thickening.

As people get older, the likelihood of thickened nails increases. Growth slows down, circulation decreases, and the nail bed changes. Medical conditions such as diabetes and psoriasis also affect nail structure. With diabetes, poor circulation is often a factor, while psoriasis causes deformation and discoloration.



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Symptoms of a thickened toenail

A thickened nail is noticeable due to a clearly thicker structure than normal. The color often changes to yellow, brown, or green. The texture becomes brittle or rough, and the nail may lose its original shape. Sometimes the nail hurts under pressure, especially in shoes. Infections can also cause odor.

Treatment of a thick toenail

The right treatment depends on the cause. Mild fungal infections can often be treated at home. For more severe cases, medical help is needed.

Over-the-counter antifungal agents, fungal nail pens, and disinfectant sprays may help in mild cases. Prescription medication from a doctor is stronger but also comes with more side effects. Natural remedies such as vinegar, baking soda, or tea tree oil may provide relief, but effectiveness varies per person. A nail care pen with nourishing ingredients supports recovery and protection. For stubborn fungus, laser treatment can be an option. In severe cases, a doctor may remove part of the nail.

Comparison of Treatments

Treatment Advantages Disadvantages
Over-the-counter Easy to obtain, suitable for mild cases Less effective for severe infections
Prescription medication Strong and targeted Side effects, requires medical supervision
Natural remedies Accessible, often inexpensive Effect not always proven
Nail care pen Easy to use, focused on recovery Works only with consistent use
Laser treatment Few side effects, no medication needed Expensive, usually not covered by insurance
Surgical removal Radical solution for severe damage Invasive, requires recovery time


Self-care and prevention

Good hygiene plays a major role. Keep your feet clean and dry. Cut toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Wear properly fitting shoes to prevent pressure on the nails. Use disinfectant sprays if you suffer from sweaty feet. Do not share nail clippers or socks with others.

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When medical advice is needed

See a doctor if the nail remains painful or worsens. If self-care has no effect, or if you have diabetes, it is wise to seek help. Watch for signs of infection such as redness, pus, swelling, or fever. A black, green, or severely deformed nail should always be evaluated.

In summary

A thickened toenail usually has a clear cause. By observing carefully and acting accordingly, you can prevent it from getting worse. Treatments are available in many forms, from simple self-care to medical procedures. Proper care and attention to hygiene are essential. In doubt? Seek professional help in time. This way you prevent further damage and keep your nails healthy.