Are Thick Nails Always Fungal? Other Reasons Your Toenails Might Be Changing

Are Thick Nails Always Fungal?

Other Reasons Your Toenails Might Be Changing

If you’ve noticed your toenails getting thicker, you’re not alone—and you’re not imagining things. Thickened nails are one of the most common concerns we see at our clinic. While fungal nail infections are often to blame, they’re not the only reason your toenails might be changing.

Let’s explore what might be going on under the surface (literally), and how to know when it’s time to get them checked.

The Usual Suspect: Fungal Nail Infection (Onychomycosis)

Yes, fungal infections are a very common cause of thick, discoloured, or crumbly nails. The fungus gets under the nail and feeds on keratin, the protein that makes up your nails. Over time, this can lead to:

• Yellow, brown, or white discolouration

• Crumbly or brittle texture

• Thickening of the nail plate

• A foul smell in some cases

It’s usually picked up in damp places—think gyms, swimming pools, or sharing nail tools. But if your nails are thick and there’s no itching or obvious colour change, something else might be going on.

Other Reasons Your Toenails Might Be Thickening

1. Trauma or Repeated Pressure

Stubbed your toe recently? Or wear tight shoes often? Even small, repeated knocks (like from running or work boots) can cause the nail to thicken and change shape as it grows.

You might not even remember injuring it—but the nail sure does!

2. Ageing

As we get older, toenails naturally grow slower and can become thicker and more brittle. This change is completely normal but can make it harder to trim them properly.

3. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition, but it can also affect your nails. It can cause pitting, ridges, discolouration, and—you guessed it—thickening.

4. Eczema or Dermatitis

If you have eczema or dermatitis on your feet, your toenails might become thick or distorted as part of the inflammatory process.

5. Circulation Issues or Diabetes

Conditions that affect blood flow—like diabetes or vascular disease—can also impact nail growth and texture. This is why regular foot checks are so important if you have these conditions.

6. Genetics

Sometimes thick toenails just run in the family! If your parents or siblings have the same, it could be down to your genes.

How to Tell the Difference

Without a proper assessment (and sometimes a nail test), it can be hard to tell exactly what’s causing thick nails. That’s why we always recommend seeing a podiatrist if:

• Your toenails are getting thicker, darker, or painful

• You’re struggling to cut them

• There’s a bad smell or signs of infection

• You have diabetes or circulation issues

What You Can Do

Here are some simple tips to help keep thick toenails in check:

• Trim carefully – Use a straight-edge nail clipper and don’t cut too short.

• Soften nails first – Soak your feet in warm water before trimming.

• Wear roomy shoes – Tight footwear only makes things worse.

• Don’t ignore changes – The earlier you get help, the easier it is to treat.

If fungal infection is the cause, we can help you explore treatment options—from topical solutions to laser therapy.

Let’s Get to the Root of the Problem

At Coventry Foot Doctor, we treat all sorts of toenail concerns—not just fungal ones. If your nails are thickening and you’re not sure why, we’re here to figure it out with you.

Don’t put up with uncomfortable or unsightly nails. A simple appointment could help get your feet feeling fresher and looking better in no time.

📅 Book a nail health check today and give your feet the care they deserve.