Toenail Trauma vs Fungus: How to Tell the Difference

 

Toenail trauma and fungus are separate conditions, but they can appear very similar. Understanding differences between the two can help you figure out what kind of treatment you need and when it’s right to see a doctor. 

In this guide, we’ll explore toenail trauma vs fungus, the causes and symptoms, how to tell the difference between the two, and if podiatrists treat toenail fungus. 

What is Toenail Trauma?

Toenail trauma occurs when some sort of damage or injury is inflicted upon the toenail. It can happen due to short-term causes (e.g., stubbing your toe) or long-term causes (e.g., shoes that fit too tightly, or poor blood flow to the feet).

Common symptoms of nail trauma include:

1. Nail thickening or curling. To protect itself, the nail will become unusually thick. It may curl or become misshapen due to rapid growth. 
2. Discoloration. Blood pooling under the nail may cause dark spots. 
3. Nail loss. In severe cases, trauma may cause the nail to fall off. Depending on the damage, the nail might not grow back properly or at all. 
4. Pain or discomfort. The pressure a thickened nail exerts on the toe can be painful. 
5. Ingrown toenail. The thickened nail may begin growing into the side of the toe and cause an ingrown toenail.

What is Toenail Fungus?

Fungus is a result of microscopic fungi infecting the nail. A fungal infection will infect both the nail bed and the nail itself, resulting in gradual destruction of the nail’s structure. 

Fungi typically grow in moist or damp environments. Swimming pools, locker rooms, and sweaty socks or shoes are hot spots for fungus growth. Diabetes and various immune conditions can make people more prone to fungal infections.

Common symptoms of toenail fungus:

• Discoloration
• Thickening
• Pain
• Crumbling or brittleness
• Foul odor
• Yellow or white spots under the nail
• Misshapen nail beds
• Toenails pulling away from the nail bed

Hygiene is key to preventing fungal infections. Wash feet with soap and water, and change shoes and socks frequently.

Toenail Trauma vs Fungus: Understanding the Difference

Toenail trauma and fungus often appear similar. Both can lead to thickening, discoloration, and distortion of the toenails and are often painful. When distinguishing between toenail trauma vs fungus, note that trauma is caused by physical injury, while an infection from microscopic spores causes fungus. 

Some key differences between toenail trauma and fungus:

1. Toenail trauma is usually abrupt and caused by a sudden injury. Fungus appears more gradually.
2. Toenail trauma tends to be highly painful. Pain from fungus may be duller or nonexistent.
3. Discoloration from toenail trauma is typically black, blue, or purple due to blood pooling beneath the nail. Discoloration from fungus is usually yellow, white, or brown.
4. Toenail trauma stays isolated to the damaged nail. Fungus can be highly contagious and may spread across nails if left untreated. 
5. Toenail trauma does not produce an odor. Fungal infections can produce a foul odor because of debris trapped beneath the nail.

Do Podiatrists Treat Toenail Fungus? 

Yes, podiatrists do treat toenail fungus! It is highly recommended to see a podiatrist if your fungal infection is progressing or if you’re unsure what’s wrong. Antifungal medication and toenail removal are potential treatments for fungal infections. 

Here at Foot Specialists of Birmingham, we’re more than qualified to help with toenail trauma, fungus, or any other foot condition you’re facing. Contact our office, and our experienced staff will be able to help with whatever you need. See for yourself why we’re trusted by patients across the Birmingham metro area.