Condition
Toenail Fungus
Thick or discolored nails have more than one possible cause, and appearance alone does not confirm a fungal infection.
Nail fungus is also called onychomycosis. Findings can include discoloration, thickening, brittleness, cracking, crumbling, lifting, misshaping, debris beneath the nail, or pain in more advanced cases.
Nail appearance alone does not always establish a fungal infection — trauma, psoriasis, and other nail disorders can look similar. A clinician may obtain nail material for microscopic or laboratory evaluation.
This page is general education. Symptoms described on a website cannot establish a diagnosis, and an in-person examination is what identifies the cause of your symptoms and what to do about it.
Common signs and symptoms
- Discoloration of the nail
- Thickening or misshaping
- Brittleness, cracking, or crumbling
- Lifting of the nail from the nail bed
- Debris beneath the nail
- Pain in more advanced cases
Possible causes and contributing factors
- Fungal infection
- Prior trauma to the nail
- Psoriasis and other nail disorders
How Metro Foot & Ankle evaluates toenail fungus
- We review your symptoms, activity or injury history, footwear, and medical history.
- We examine the nail, nail bed, surrounding skin, and circulation along with the surrounding joints and the way you walk.
- We use X-rays or other testing when the findings make it clinically appropriate.
- We explain what we found and what the reasonable options are for your situation.
You will see Dr. Kayla Wright, DPM, ABFAS Board Certified, at our Tempe office. New to the practice? Review new-patient information before your visit.
General treatment progression
Treatment selection depends on how much of the nail is involved, the organism, your medical history, your medications, your circulation, and other individual factors. Toenails grow slowly, so visible change is not immediate.
- Evaluation of the nail, with sampling for microscopic or laboratory testing when indicated
- Discussion of treatment options appropriate to your findings and health history
- Monitoring of the nail as it grows out
- Separate discussion of cosmetic appearance if that is a concern for you
KeryFlex Nail Restoration may improve the cosmetic appearance of a nail, but it does not eliminate an underlying fungal infection.
When prompt evaluation may be appropriate
Some foot and ankle symptoms should be evaluated promptly rather than watched. Call our office if you notice:
- An injury with difficulty walking or bearing weight
- A change in the shape or appearance of the foot or ankle after a fall or twist
- Redness, warmth, drainage, or signs of infection
- An open sore or wound on the foot, especially with diabetes or circulation concerns
- New numbness, burning, or other changes in sensation
- Pain that keeps getting worse or does not improve with reasonable initial care
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. This website and its appointment tools are not monitored for emergency medical needs.
Frequently asked questions
Can you tell from a photo whether my nail is fungal?
No. Appearance alone does not establish a fungal infection, and nail material may be examined to confirm what is present.
Does KeryFlex treat nail fungus?
No. KeryFlex is a cosmetic nail restoration procedure. It does not treat or eliminate the underlying cause of nail damage.
How soon will the nail look better?
Toenails grow slowly, so visible improvement is not immediate regardless of the treatment selected.
Your next step
To be seen for toenail fungus, request an appointment or call 480-831-0700. Our office is at 3231 S Country Club Way, Suite 108, in Tempe — see directions and parking.
Sources(show)
- American Academy of Dermatology — Nail Fungus: Signs and SymptomsAppearance and symptom patterns associated with nail fungus.
- American Academy of Dermatology — Nail Fungus: Diagnosis and TreatmentDistinguishing fungus from other nail disorders, nail sampling, and slow visible change.
Request an appointment
Our Tempe office schedules new and established patients Monday through Friday. Book online, or call and we will help you find a time.
Metro Foot & Ankle — Tempe office
3231 S Country Club Way, Suite 108
Tempe, AZ 85282
Fax 480-831-0748
Suite 108 is on the ground floor of the office complex, marked with Metro Foot & Ankle signage and our phone number on the window. Parking is available on site.
Office hours
- Monday – Friday
- 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday & Sunday
- Closed
Please do not send medical details, records, or images through this website. Call the office to discuss anything clinical.
