Toenail Infections: Symptoms, Causes, and When to See a Doctor

Your feet work hard every day, carrying you wherever you need to go. Sometimes, they need a little extra care, especially when toenail infections develop.

If you're dealing with a painful, discolored, or thick toenail, you're not alone. Dr. Jason Serpe, a podiatrist at Riverside Healthcare, shares what you need to know about toenail infections and how we can help you get back on your feet comfortably.

What Are Toenail Infections?

Toenail infections happen when bacteria or fungus gets into or under your toenail. While they’re common, they can be uncomfortable and may get worse without proper treatment.

The good news? Most toenail infections are treatable, especially when caught early.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

You might have a toenail infection if you notice:

• Thick, discolored toenails (yellow, brown, or white)
• Brittle or crumbly nails
• Pain or tenderness around the nail
• Swelling or redness
• An unusual smell
• Difficulty trimming the nail

Don't ignore these signs. The sooner you get treatment, the better your results will be.

What Causes Toenail Infections?

Fungal Infections

"Fungus loves dark, warm, and moist places such as the inside of your shoes," explains Dr. Serpe. People who wear shoes for long periods are more likely to develop fungal infections.

Injury to the Toenail

Dropping something heavy on your toe or stubbing it can "break the seal" of the nail. This makes it easier for fungus or bacteria to get in and cause problems.

Ingrown Toenails

These typically happen because of:

• Shoes that are too tight
• Socks that squeeze your toes
• Cutting your nails too short or at an angle
• Repetitive pressure from sports like running or soccer

How to Prevent Toenail Problems

Simple steps can help protect your feet:

• Wear shoes that fit properly and are not too tight or too loose
• Change your shoes daily to let them dry out completely
• Keep your feet clean and dry
• Cut your toenails straight across and not curved
• Wear moisture-wicking socks
• Choose breathable shoes when possible

Treatment Options Available

Over-the-Counter Treatments

While drugstore treatments are available, Dr. Serpe notes they often don't work as well as people hope. "They can't penetrate the nail very well, and many fungi live underneath the nail bed."

Prescription Medications

We offer stronger topical treatments that work better than over-the-counter options. For severe cases, oral medications might be recommended, though these require careful monitoring.

Important to know: Oral treatments take time – about 8 months for the nail to grow out completely. "If you start treatment in the fall, you'll hopefully see changes by summer," Dr. Serpe explains.

In-Office Procedures

For ingrown toenails, Dr. Serpe can perform a simple office procedure:

• We numb the area for your comfort
• Remove the ingrown portion of the nail
• Apply a treatment to prevent it from growing back incorrectly

In some cases, removing the entire nail may be the best option for long-term relief.

When to See a Specialist

Don't wait if you have:

• Pain that interferes with walking or daily activities
• Signs of spreading infection (increased redness, swelling, or warmth)
• Diabetes or circulation problems
• Symptoms that aren't improving with home care

"The earlier we can catch a toenail infection, the better we can treat it," says Dr. Serpe.

Your Next Steps

If you're experiencing toenail problems, you don’t have to suffer through the pain and discomfort. Our podiatry team at Riverside Healthcare is here to help you find relief.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Serpe or one of our other podiatry specialists. We’ll work with you to find the best treatment plan for your specific situation.

Learn more about Riverside Podiatry services and how our team can help keep you moving comfortably.