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You might feel embarrassed about showing your nails to a doctor. But your doctor has probably seen nail infections before and will be able to suggest treatments to get rid of the infection.

You may think that your nails look ugly because they have turned yellowish. Or they may have gotten thick and crumbly.^{1 2} Many people with fungal nail infections have had them for a long time, often for many years.³

If you think you have a nail or nails that are infected, you should see your doctor or a foot doctor (podiatrist). You can buy some medication over the counter from a drugstore. Or your doctor or foot doctor can prescribe others if you need them.

About 20 years ago, there were no treatments for fungal nail infections. So doctors knew they couldn't do anything about them. But this has changed. Now there are treatments that work.

Your doctor will probably look at your nail and may take a nail clipping. The clipping will be tested for a fungal infection at a laboratory. This helps your doctor decide if your nail has a fungal infection or if it has been damaged, say, by stubbing your toe. If a nail is damaged, antifungal treatments won't help.

If your nails have gotten thick, they should be thinned down before you have treatment so that medication can get to the infection. Podiatrists can do this for you.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.