Fungal Nail Infection Symptoms

Medically reviewed by:

Dr Dan Bunstone - Medical Officer

Updated: Aug 18, 2021

Next review: Aug 18, 2022

A fungal nail infection is ommon and not usually serious. They are more common in the toenails, compared with the fingernails, but can develop in both.

Fungal nail infection symptoms are the same for adults and children. They typically develop slowly and things to look out for include:

Discoloured nails that may turn a different colour, such as a yellow-green
The nail may become an unusual shape
Thickening of the nail or unusual nail textures
Scaling underneath the nail (subungual hyperkeratosis)
Yellow spots at the base of the nail
Brittle nails that may crumble, break off in pieces or completely come away
A smelly odour coming from the site of the infection
A build-up of pieces of skin debris and nail debris under the nail
Painful to put weight on
The surrounding skin may be sore, inflamed or itchy

If you have a fungal nail infection and experience any of the following symptoms, then you should contact a doctor straight away, as it can be a sign of a bad infection;

A discharge of pus
A fever of over 38°C with no other known reasons
Red streaks extending out from the area affected
Redness, swelling, tenderness, pain or heat in the affected area

You can tell our online doctors about the symptoms that you are experiencing during an online video consultation, and they will be able to look at the affected area and confirm a diagnosis.

Now that you are aware of the symptoms of a fungal nail infection, and if you believe you have one, it is recommended that you talk to a doctor.

At Push Doctor, our caring GPs can listen to your symptoms and make a diagnosis, ensuring that you receive the right treatment.

Our doctors are available 7 days a week, every day of the year. Book an appointment now and get the treatment you need.

Dr Dan Bunstone - Medical Officer

Fungal nail infection symptoms

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