Including fungal infection, trauma, injury, psoriasis, eczema, circulatory issues, prolonged exposure to moisture, and certain diseases such as diabetes.
Fungal infections are the most common cause of thickening toenails, as fungi tends to grow in warm, moist environments. Fungal nails are typically yellow, brown, or green and may be accompanied by a bad smell.
Treatment includes topical antifungal medications and sometimes oral antifungal medications.
Injury and trauma can also cause thickening of the toenails due to injury or inflammation of the nail bed. The nail may have a discolored appearance and often a thick ‘shiny’ coating. Treatment typically involves the use of antifungal medications and wearing proper fitting shoes.
Psoriasis is a skin condition that can cause the nails to thicken. The nails may become rough, brittle and discolored. Treatment typically involves the use of topical creams and topical steroid medications.
Eczema can cause inflammation of the skin around the nails leading to thickening. Treatment typically involves the use of moisturizing creams, emollients, and topical corticosteroids.
Circulatory issues can cause thickened toenails due to poor circulation, leading to dryness and yellow-brown discoloration. Treatment typically involves the use of medications or lifestyle changes to improve circulation.
Prolonged exposure to moisture in wet or humid environments can cause toenails to thicken. Treatment typically involves protecting the feet with proper footwear and changing out of wet shoes and socks as soon as possible.
Certain diseases, such as diabetes, can lead to thickening of the toenails due to high blood sugar levels leading to increased secretion of sweat and resulting in moisture trapped under the nails. Treatment typically involves controlling blood sugar levels and wearing proper shoes to protect the feet.
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What are thick toenails a symptom of?
Thick toenails can be a symptom of a variety of different medical conditions, including but not limited to fungal infections, psoriasis, lichen planus, and kidney disease. Fungal infections of the nails, such as onychomycosis, can cause the nails to thicken, discolor, and become crumbly.
This type of infection is often associated with diabetes, since weakened immune systems can cause individuals to be more prone to this type of infection. Psoriasis can cause the nails to become pitted and rough on the surface, as well as cause yellow discoloration, ridging, and thickening.
Lichen planus is a skin condition in which white patches appear on the skin, and it can cause thickened, greenish-yellow and ridged toenails. Lastly, those with kidney disease can experience thickening and yellowing of the nails.
If you are experiencing thickening of your toenails, it is important to see your doctor or dermatologist to be properly diagnosed and receive treatment. Depending on the underlying cause, your doctor may prescribe oral medications or antifungal treatments to treat the condition.
What underlying conditions cause thick toenails?
Thickened, brittle toenails can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions. The most common causes include fungal infections (onychomycosis), psoriasis, injury and aging.
Fungal infections are the most common cause of thick toenails and can occur when the fungi, mostly dermatophytes, enter the nail through a small cut or break. These fungi thrive in warm, wet environments and can cause the toenail to become thick and discolored, often resulting in a yellowish hue.
In severe cases, the nail may become distorted and may flake off in layers.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can cause thickening and discoloration of the toenails. This can be marked by pitted or ridged nails and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as patches of dry skin and raised, red plaques.
Injury can also lead to thick toenails, especially if the nail is broken or crushed. The toenail may become misshapen and discolored, and may become wider over time due to the additional nail growth in the affected area.
Lastly, aging can also lead to thick toenails. This is usually due to normal wear and tear on the toenails, which can cause them to become more brittle and thick. In addition, older people are more susceptible to fungal infections, so this can also lead to thick, discolored nails.
Treatment for thick toenails will depend on the underlying cause. Fungal infections can be treated with antifungal creams, oral medications or laser treatments, while psoriasis may require topical corticosteroids or other medications such as methotrexate or biologics.
Injuries, such as localized trauma or nail bed damage, can heal with time, while aging related thickening of the nail may need time and proper nail care to improve.
How do I get rid of thickening toenails?
Thickening of toenails can be caused by a variety of conditions, including fungal infection, ill-fitting shoes, toe trauma, aging, and genetics. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to address this issue.
1. Make sure you’re wearing shoes that fit properly. Shoes that are too tight can put pressure on your toes, leading to thickening toenails. Allowing your toes to have enough space can help prevent a build-up of pressure.
2. Try filing your toenails regularly. Filing can help thin out thick toenails, and reduce their risk of splitting or breaking.
3. If the cause of your toenails’ thickening is due to a fungal infection, you may need to apply antifungal cream or take antifungal medications. These can be prescribed by a doctor.
4. If you still find you’re having trouble getting rid of thick toenails, consider visiting a foot doctor or podiatrist who can help you with your issue. They may apply topical treatments and medications to help fix the problem, or suggest more advanced treatments, like laser therapy.
Following these tips can help reduce thickening toenails and restore your feet’s natural, healthy appearance.
Can toenail thickening be reversed?
Yes, toenail thickening can be reversed. Toenail thickening, also known as onychauxis, is typically caused by a fungal infection, which can be successfully treated with antifungal medication, such as oral medication like terbinafine or itraconazole.
In severe cases, toenails may need to be completely removed. Regular trimming of the toenail can also promote healthy nail growth and reduce thickening. Additionally, lifestyle changes can help to reduce the chances of nail thickening.
Keeping the feet dry, changing shoes and socks often, and wearing well-ventilated shoes can help reduce the risk of fungal infection. If the infection is caused by trauma, such as dropping something heavy on the toes, the nail can often be reversed with filing, though it may take several months.
However, if the infection is caused by fungus, medications will be required to fully reverse the toenail thickening.
How does a podiatrist treat thick toenails?
A podiatrist can treat thick toenails with a variety of methods, depending on the severity of the condition. These treatments may include filing down the toenail, trimming the toenail, prescription medications, laser treatment, and surgical removal of the affected toenail.
Filing down the toenail is the most common treatment and can provide some relief, as it makes the toenail easier to trim and can help relieve discomfort. Prescription medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and keep the nail bed healthy.
Laser treatment can also be an effective way to treat thick toenails, as the laser helps reduce the thickness of the toenail. Finally, in more serious cases, podiatrists may suggest surgical removal of the affected toenail.
This may involve the use of anesthesia, depending on the extent of the toenail thickening. The podiatrist will discuss the best option for the individual’s condition with them and determine the best approach for treating the thick toenail.
Do thick toenails ever go away?
Thick toenails can go away, but it can depend on the cause of your thick toenails.
If your thick toenails are caused by an infection or fungus, your doctor can prescribe medications that can help treat the underlying problem, which can also help improve the look of your thick toenails.
Additionally, you may be able to find over-the-counter medications or home remedies to help improve the look of your thick toenails.
If the cause of your thick toenails is due to aging, there are a number of treatments that you can try to help improve their look, such as trimming them frequently to keep them from becoming too thick, moisturizing them, and wearing well-fitting shoes with roomy toe boxes.
It is important to talk to your doctor about thick toenails as some underlying medical conditions can cause thick toenails, such as hypertension, psoriasis, and thyroid disease. Your doctor can diagnose the cause and help you find the right treatment plan for your thick toenails.
What is the white hard stuff under my toenails?
The white hard stuff under your toenails is likely keratin debris. Keratin is a protein that is found in hair, nails and skin. As your toenails grow, the keratin debris accumulates under the nail and the white, hard substance is created.
Keratin debris can also form when the toenail is cut back too far, causing the nail to separate from the nail bed. If thediscomfort caused by the buildup is unbearable, your doctor can remove it safely.
In some cases, an over-the-counter or prescription medicated ointment may help. It is also important to keep your feet and toenails clean and dry, as fungus and bacteria can worsen the condition. With proper hygiene and good foot care, you should be able to keep this uncomfortable issue to a minimum.
How can I thin my thick toenails at home?
Thinning thick toenails at home is not only possible, but can also be done in a safe and effective manner. First, you should make sure that any medical issues with your toenails have been addressed by a medical professional.
Second, you should take the proper precautions to prevent any further damage. This includes making sure your feet are clean and dry, avoiding walking barefoot, wearing shoes that fit well, and not putting pressure on the toenail itself.
Once you have taken the necessary safety measures, you can use a variety of methods to thin the nails. To start, you should file the toenail with a emery board or toenail clipper. Make sure that you hold the emery board or clipper such that the angle of the tool is against the nail, as this will help with thinning and prevent any damage that would come from filing too deep into the nail.
You can also soak the toenail in a solution of warm water and Epsom salt, which will help to soften the nail and make it easier to thin it. Additionally, you should consider using products designed specifically to thin toenails, such as nail thinners, nail gnaws, or nail creams.
These products usually contain compounds and oils which help promote nail health and reduce thickening.
Finally, you can supplement these methods with lifestyle changes that promote better nail health. This includes eating a balanced and healthy diet, avoiding smoking and alcohol, and practicing regular foot hygiene.
With consistent care and attention, thinning thick toenails at home can be possible without a trip to the doctor.
Should you file down thick toenails?
Thick, discolored toenails can be both an inconvenient and embarrassing issue to deal with. Depending on the cause and severity of the thickening, filing down thick toenails may be a good option to reduce the thickness and improve the appearance.
However, before filing your toenails, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to ensure the thickening isn’t caused by an underlying condition such as a fungal infection, psoriasis, or injury.
Filing should only be done if the thickening isn’t caused by an underlying disorder.
If you do decide to file your toenails, be sure to use a specialized toenail file that is specifically designed for this purpose. Choose one that is slightly convex (in shape) and made of a coarse material like metal, glass or ceramic.
Before filing, ensure you first use a toenail clipper to trim the toenail down as much as possible. Start in the center and use gentle, firm strokes towards the edges towards the edges. Inspect the nail for any signs of pain, inflammation, or soreness after filing.
If any of these signs are present, stop filing and consult a healthcare provider for further advice.
Additionally, filing thick toenails too frequently may lead to further damage and soreness so strive to limit filing to once every two weeks. Use a foot moisturizer after filing to prevent the nails from becoming dry and brittle and keep the feet clean and dry to prevent the onset of any infections.
Why do toenails get thicker with age?
As we get older, the production of proteins and other substances in our body decreases, which contributes to thicker nails. Other factors in our environment, such as diet and lifestyle, can also play a role in our nails becoming thicker.
The nail plate is made up of several layers of protein called keratin. Keratin is a very hard material that grows slowly and naturally thickens over time. This thickening can be further exacerbated by a less than ideal diet and poor hygiene, both of which can make the nails more brittle and prone to cracking or splitting.
Additionally, as we age, the circulation to our fingers and toes decreases, leading to slower nail growth and an overall thicker appearance. Some medical conditions, such as diabetes and psoriasis, can also cause thickening toenails.
Furthermore, people who frequently wear tight, closed-toe shoes are more likely to experience thickening of their toenails, as the pressure on the nail can slow down its growth and cause it to thicken.
What causes your toenails to get thick?
Toenails can become thickened due to an underlying medical condition or excessive pressure on the nail bed. Fungal infections, trauma (such as an ingrown toenail), poor circulation, vitamin deficiencies, psoriasis, and thyroid problems are all potential causes.
In some cases, thickening of the toenails is caused by a chronic inflammatory skin condition called lichen planus. Thickening of the toenails can also be caused by shoe-related injuries, such as repetitive stress from wearing tight shoes, running on concrete, and repeatedly dropping heavy objects on the toes.
Additionally, toenail thickening can be an age-related condition. As you age, the toenails can thicken due to age-related diseases, such as diabetes and arthritis, or just due to general wear and tear.
Finally, toenail thickening can be due to genetics or fungi that feed on the protein and keratin of the nails.
Is Vicks good for thick toenails?
Answer: Vicks may help with thickened toenails, but it should not be used as a sole treatment. The vapor from Vicks vaporub may help soften thick toenails, which can make them easier to trim. However, it should be used in combination with other treatments.
If the thickened toenail is a result of a fungal infection, Vicks alone won’t be enough. You should talk to your doctor to find out the underlying cause of the thick toenail, and then follow the recommended treatment plan.
Are thick toenails permanent?
No, thick toenails are not necessarily permanent. Thick toenails can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungus, trauma, aging, or activity that causes too much pressure on the nail. Depending on the cause, it is possible to treat the underlying issue and reduce the thickness of the toenail.
If the thickening of the nails is due to a fungal infection, the treatment will involve taking antifungal medications, either as a topical prescription cream or orally as a pill. Your doctor may also suggest using a mineral acid to soften the nails, as well as wearing open-toed shoes or sandals to allow the infected area to breath.
You should also trim your toenails regularly, but be careful not to cut them too short. With proper care and treatment, it is possible for a toenail to return to its normal thickness over time.
For toenails that become thick due to aging, it is best to avoid any injury that might cause further damage. This includes wearing comfortable shoes with a wide toe box, wearing open-toed shoes, and avoiding activities that put too much strain on the nails, such as running or playing sports.
The thickness may not be able to be reversed, but taking these measures can help prevent further damage.
No matter the cause of thick toenails, it is best to seek medical advice from a doctor if the condition does not improve. They may be able to provide more specific advice to help address the underlying issue and restore your toenails to their normal thickness.
How do I stop my toenails from thickening with age?
Toenails naturally thicken with age, however, there are a few things that you can do to help prevent your toenails from becoming too thick.
First, make sure to keep your toenails trimmed and filed. Regularly trimming and filing your toenails can help reduce the likelihood of them becoming too thick. Additionally, take the time to make sure that you are not trimming them too short since this can cause the nails to thicken over time.
In addition, you should ensure that your feet stay properly hydrated. Moisture helps keep toenails supple and prevents thickening. You can use foot lotion on a regular basis to ensure that your feet have adequate moisture.
It also helps to wear shoes that provide plenty of room for your toes. If shoes are too tight this can cause toenails to thicken on their own. Make sure to purchase shoes that provide plenty of space and relief for your feet and toenails.
If you want to go a step further, you might consider using a nail hardener on the toenails. This can help prevent the nails from cracking and thickening over time. It is important to note, however, that you should be careful with how much nail hardener you use and how often you use it.
Finally, make sure to monitor any toenail issues that you may have. If you notice that your toenails are thicker than usual or if they seem to be discolored, make sure to consult with a doctor in order to ensure that your toenails are healthy.
