Nail fungus: how to recognize it and avoid confusion?
Introduction
Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is one of the most common conditions of the hands and especially the feet. It is estimated that it affects 1 in 10 people in Europe, and up to 1 in 2 after 70 years. However, she often remains misdiagnosed : a yellowed or damaged nail can be taken for a fungus… or on the contrary, a fungus can be minimized as a simple aesthetic defect.
👉 Result: many people delay their treatment and let the infection take hold.
In this article we will see how to recognize real nail fungus, how to differentiate it from other problems (trauma, psoriasis, varnish, etc.), and when to consult a professional to confirm the diagnosis.
What is nail fungus?
There nail fungus, scientifically called onychomycosis, is an infection caused by microscopic fungi. These microorganisms grow particularly well in environments hot and humid(closed shoes, swimming pools, public showers).
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They gradually attack the keratin, the protein that makes up the nail.
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The nail then becomes thick, crumbly, discolored and sometimes painful.
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Without treatment, the infection can spread to several nails or even the skin (athlete's foot).
To remember: Mycosis is an infectious disease, not a simple cosmetic defect.
Typical symptoms of nail fungus
To recognize onychomycosis, several characteristic signs must be observed.
1. Color change
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Nail that yellows, browns or becomes whitish.
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The stain often starts on the side or end of the nail and spreads.
2. Gradual thickening
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The nail becomes thicker and harder than the others.
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This can make it difficult to cut nails or put on shoes.
3. Friable or crumbling nail
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Small pieces that come off.
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“Eaten” or irregular appearance.
4. Partial detachment of the nail (onycholysis)
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The nail gradually separates from the skin.
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A hollow space may form, conducive to bacteria.
5. Bad smell
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In some cases, unpleasant odor linked to the proliferation of fungi.
What looks like a yeast infection…but isn’t
⚠️ Warning: not all damaged nails are necessarily fungus. Other conditions can give a similar appearance.
Nail trauma
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Blow, friction in a shoe or intensive sport → brown or black hematoma.
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Unlike a fungus, the nail grows back healthy once the trauma has passed.
Nail psoriasis
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Chronic inflammatory disease.
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Thickened, deformed nail with small holes on the surface (“mothed nail” appearance).
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Often associated with skin patches elsewhere on the body.
Stains related to varnish or chemicals
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Some dark varnishes leave yellow/brown marks.
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This is not an infection, but a temporary discoloration.
Natural aging of the nail
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With age, nails thicken and become more opaque.
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Not necessarily linked to mushrooms.
Why recognizing a yeast infection is essential
A correct diagnosis is important for 3 reasons:
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Avoid processing errors : there is no need to apply an antifungal to a traumatized nail.
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Act early : the longer you wait, the more the infection spreads and becomes difficult to eliminate.
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Limit contagion : mushroom spores are easily transmitted within the family, swimming pools, locker rooms.
How to confirm the diagnosis?
Self-observation
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Compare your nails with each other: fungus rarely affects all the nails at once at first.
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Look for the typical signs (yellowing, thickening, peeling).
Medical consultation
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The doctor or dermatologist can take a sample (mycological examination) to identify the fungus.
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This allows other causes (psoriasis, bacteria, deficiency) to be ruled out.
Online tools
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Some specialized sites, such as MicoZen, offer quick diagnostics in just a few questions.
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This can help guide you towards the right treatment.
What to do if you think you have a yeast infection?
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Don't ignore the symptoms : a mycosis never goes away alone.
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Start appropriate treatment : natural (essential oils, concentrated serum) or medical depending on the severity.
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Adopt hygiene measures :
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Dry your feet thoroughly after showering
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Disinfect shoes regularly
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Do not share nail clippers or towels
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Be patient and regular : the treatment must last several months, until the nail has completely regrown.
Conclusion
Nail fungus is a common condition but often confused with other problems.
👉 The main signs to remember: yellowed, thickened, crumbly nail, sometimes detached.
👉 Warning: hematoma, psoriasis or simple coloring can give a misleading appearance.
A good diagnosis is the key to effective treatment and lasting recovery.
If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to consult a professional or use a online diagnostic tool to guide your treatment.
With appropriate treatment and regularity, your nails can regain their appearance healthy, clean and strong.
