Toenails can become infected in at least two different ways: a fungal infection beneath the nail, or an ingrown toenail where the skin on the sides of the toenail becomes infected. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, toenail infections are usually associated with athlete's foot. Nail infections, or onychomycosis, describe the condition where the toenail is infected with the fungus Tinea unguium. You can apply the proper treatment once you've confirmed that you have a case of toenail infection.
Step 1
Apply pressure to both sides of the affected toenail to determine if your toenail pain is due to an ingrown nail. Pain is an indication of an ingrown toenail rather than a fungal infection. A toenail infected with a fungus will not be painful to the touch.
Step 2
Write a list of symptoms. These symptoms may include redness, scaly skin, itching or pain when touched. Fungal infections often thicken the toenail, and the nail will begin turning yellow or white in color, and become brittle. Additionally, an infected toenail may become separated from the nail bed and curl at the edges. Note any pain, pus, redness or swelling of the skin on each side of the nail that may indicate an ingrown nail or injury.
Step 3
Write down any recent trips to a swimming pool, health club or other environment where you may have removed your shoes and socks in a public place. Note any injuries your feet may have sustained. Recall any ingrown toenails that may have irritated the skin to the sides of the toenail.
Step 4
Note how long the problem has persisted. Write the date when the problems started on a calendar. Infections caused by ingrown toenails can inflame into larger infections if left untreated for a long period of time. If a toenail fungal problem is persistent and interferes with daily life, a doctor may suggest removal of the nail.
Step 5
Make an appointment with a physician. Give her the list of symptoms, along with any observations you may have. Be sure to inform her of any history that may have led to the infection. The doctor will examine the nail thoroughly, and may take your temperature if she suspects an infection.
Step 6
Consent to laboratory testing. The doctor may scrape a bit of tissue from the toenail area and send it to the laboratory for further identification. This will help determine if the infection is caused by a fungus, or if the problem is due to an ingrown nail or other injury sustained by the toenail or nail bed.
Things You'll Need
- Paper
- Calendar
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