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If a fungus has infected your nail you may have a couple of symptoms. You get symptoms because as the fungus grows it makes a space between your nail and the flesh underneath your nail (your nail bed.)

We've listed some of the most common symptoms. You probably won't get all of them. Most people get one or two.^{1 2 3 4 5}

• Your nail may turn white or yellow.
• Your nail may get thicker and have ridges in it.
• The nail may start to lift away from your finger or toe. Or it may come off completely.
• You may get white spots on your nail that you can scrape off.
• Your nail may get crumbly and powdery.
• The skin around your nail may turn red.
• If you've had a nail infection for a long time, your nail may hurt and this can affect how you walk. Or if it is in a fingernail, it may affect how you use that finger.

You're more likely to get a fungal infection in your toenails than in your fingernails.

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.