Isla Bennett
Thick toenails are usually harmless, but they can be unsightly and uncomfortable. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungal infections, injury to the nail bed, and underlying medical conditions such as psoriasis, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. While thick toenails can sometimes improve on their own, especially if they are due to a temporary injury, it is important to seek medical advice to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Treatment options include debridement, topical medications, and simple home remedies such as foot soaks and proper nail grooming.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Fungal infection, injury to the nail bed, autoimmune condition, or the aging process |
| Symptoms | Thickened nails, nail turning yellow, green, brown, or white, nail lifting from the nail bed, nail growing into a curved or ram horn shape |
| Diagnosis | Visual screening with a dermatoscope or hand-held magnifying glass, clip biopsy, swab testing |
| Treatment | Clean the affected area with soap and water, apply urea cream or medicated creams, trim and file nails, wear well-fitting shoes, practice good foot hygiene |
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What You'll Learn
Thick nails may indicate a fungal infection
Fungal nail infections are caused by a fungus that thrives in warm, dark, and moist environments, such as the feet. They are more likely to occur if you wear trainers for long periods, have hot and sweaty feet, or walk barefoot in communal areas like showers and gyms. People with pre-existing medical conditions, such as cancer, are also more susceptible to developing nail fungus.
If you suspect a fungal infection, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional. They may suggest an antifungal treatment that you brush onto the nail, which must be used regularly for several months. Keeping your nails clean and groomed is also important. Softening your nails with urea cream and then trimming them with a nail clipper and file can help manage the thickness. Applying over-the-counter treatments, such as Vicks VapoRub or tea tree oil, may also help clear the infection.
In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe antifungal tablets. Before prescribing medication, your doctor will likely take a sample of your nail to test for the specific type of infection. They may also perform a blood test to check your liver function. It is important to follow the treatment plan consistently for as long as recommended, as fungal infections can take a long time to treat, and stopping treatment early may lead to a recurrence of the infection.
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Thick nails can be caused by injury
Injury is not the only cause of thick nails. Thick nails can also be caused by fungal infections, which can turn the nail brown, white, or black, and cause the nail to become thick and fragile. The infection is initially minor, but over time it may spread and cause your nails to grow thicker. Toenails are particularly susceptible to fungal infections because of their exposure to wet areas, and moisture helps the fungus spread.
Fungal infections can be treated with home remedies like Vicks VapoRub, urea cream, and tea tree oil. There are also medical treatment options available, including oral and topical prescription medications, laser treatments, and nail removal. However, even with surgical removal, it may take 12 to 18 months for your toenails to return to their pre-fungus appearance.
Other causes of thick nails include aging, psoriasis, and other factors.
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Thick nails can be caused by ageing
Thick nails are not always a cause for concern and may not require treatment. One common cause of thick nails is ageing. As we get older, the growth and repair rate of nail cells slows down due to poor blood circulation, particularly in our hands and feet. This process is called onychoctes. Blood circulation can be diminished due to the narrowing and thickening of small blood vessels in our feet, making it harder for blood to flow. This causes nail cells to build up, resulting in nail thickening from the nail root. Ageing-related thick nails may also be caused by long-term UV exposure.
While thick nails due to ageing are not treatable, there are ways to reduce discomfort and improve their appearance. Regularly filing your nails at home can help reduce their thickness and remove the outer layer, which is often discoloured. If you find it challenging to cut or clip your nails, a podiatrist can use a mechanical tool called a burr to grind them down safely and painlessly. You can also buff the rough surfaces of your nails to smooth them.
It is important to note that thick nails can sometimes be a sign of other health issues, such as fungal infections, psoriasis, or other infections or disorders. Therefore, if you notice nail thickening or discolouration, it is advisable to seek medical advice and treatment. A doctor can examine your nails and determine if any underlying conditions require treatment.
Additionally, to minimise the risk of developing a fungal nail infection, which can contribute to nail thickening, it is recommended to avoid walking barefoot in public places, especially locker rooms and showers, and to keep your footwear dry. Keeping your feet as dry as possible during the day and practising good foot hygiene can also help lower your risk of fungal infections.
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Thick nails may be a symptom of an underlying condition
Thick nails can be a cosmetic concern, but they may also indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention. While thick nails are often caused by fungal infections, other factors, such as trauma or certain diseases, can also lead to nail thickening. Here are some possible underlying causes of thick nails:
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections, such as onychomycosis, are a common cause of thick nails. Toenails are particularly susceptible to fungal infections because fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. If left untreated, fungal infections can worsen and cause discomfort or pain. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you suspect a fungal infection, as early treatment improves the chances of curing the condition.
Trauma or Injury
Acute or chronic trauma to the nail bed or nail plate can lead to temporary or permanent nail thickening. Stubbing your toe, dropping a heavy object on it, or engaging in activities that exert constant pressure on the feet (such as running or dancing) can cause nail trauma and subsequent thickening.
Medical Conditions
Various medical conditions can also cause nail thickening. For example, people with psoriasis, ichthyosis, or circulation problems may develop thick nails, also known as Ram's horn nails. Additionally, certain cancers and their treatments can increase the likelihood of developing nail fungus, which can contribute to nail thickening. Other conditions associated with nail thickening include lung disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes.
Age and Heredity
In some cases, nail thickening may be attributed to age or genetic factors. As people age, their nails may thicken, although this typically does not require treatment beyond cosmetic buffing to smooth the nails. Additionally, if one or both of your parents have a history of thick nails, you may be more likely to develop the condition.
If you notice persistent nail thickening or other changes in your nails, it is important to consult a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, to determine if an underlying condition is present and receive appropriate treatment.
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Treatments for thick nails include topical creams and medications
Thick nails are often caused by fungal infections, which can lead to pain and discomfort. It is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional if you suspect that you have a toenail fungus. Prescription treatments for thick nails include oral and topical medications, laser treatments, and nail removal.
Topical treatments include creams and medications that are applied directly to the affected area. Over-the-counter topical creams such as urea cream (Aluvea, Keralac) can be used to soften the nails, which are then washed off before trimming the nails with a nail clipper and file. Other topical creams include Vicks VapoRub, which can be applied daily to help kill the nail fungus and relieve the infection. Tea tree oil can also be applied twice a day to help treat the fungal infection.
In addition to topical creams, there are also prescription topical medications that can be used to treat thick nails. These medications are prescribed by a healthcare professional and may include steroids and antibiotics if there is a skin infection around the nails. It is important to follow the treatment plan consistently for several months to effectively treat the fungal infection.
While treating thick nails, it is recommended to keep the affected area clean by washing it daily with soap and water. Practicing good foot hygiene, keeping the feet dry, and wearing sandals or shoes in wet areas can help lower the risk of toenail fungal infections.
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Frequently asked questions
Foot soaks are a good way to treat thick toenails at home. Mix baking soda, Epsom salt, or white vinegar in warm water and soak your nails in it. You can also apply Vicks VapoRub to your toenail daily to help kill the nail fungus.
Debridement is a procedure where a podiatrist uses tools to remove extra layers of your toenail. Your doctor may also prescribe topical creams, medications, and other therapies.
Toenails grow slowly and can take 12-18 months to grow out.
Thick nails can be caused by a fungal infection, injury to the nail bed, or underlying medical conditions.
Thick nails are usually harmless, but they can sometimes be a sign of an infection, an autoimmune condition, or a part of the aging process. In rare cases, thick nails can be a symptom of something more serious, such as lung disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or cancer.
