Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is the most common of the toenail conditions, and arguably the most repugnant. In onychomycosis, a fungus gains access to the protected area under the nail and begins to grow, drawing nutrients from the nail itself and spreading through the matrix of the nail. Toenails turn various shades of yellow, brown and black, and become crumbly. Untreated, the fungus can spread to other nails of both the hands and feet, and even to the skin surrounding the infected nail. Fungal infections of the toenails not only look bad, they are particularly distressing because no one wants to think that a fungus is growing on some part of their body.

Though Onychomycosis is the most common of the known toenail disorders, it is certainly not the only one. If there is something wrong with one, or all, of your toenails, you would be wise to see your doctor before trying to treat yourself. It might be something insignificant and more easily treated, or it might be one of the more serious toenail conditions that require immediate medical attention.

Bacterial growth on the nails is sometimes mistaken for fungal toenail disorders. Though the bacteria usually are not causing an infection, they can get into cavities under the surface of a nail and begin to multiply. The nail often looks quite unusual and may be discolored. If infection is present, there will be redness, swelling, pain, and discharge from the site. Bacterial colonization, though unattractive, is not a medically important toenail condition, but infection should be given prompt medical attention.

Injury to the root of the nail is another of the toenail conditions that can be mistaken for onychomycosis. If there is a blow to the root of the nail, where it is formed under the skin, there is often permanent damage that causes the nail to appear deformed. Because the cells that manufacture the nail are permanently damaged, the nail will never look normal again, but it is not infected. Temporary signs of damage to the nail include white spots that move out toward the tip as the nail grows and black areas caused by bleeding under the nail. Many people also have ridges running along the nail lengthwise, which never go away but are harmless.

Other types of toenail disorders are rare, but they can cause considerable discomfort and embarrassment to those that suffer from them. Some are hereditary. Again, it is wise to consult a health professional before starting any kind of treatment for a toenail condition to ensure that it is treated correctly.