If you’re dealing with nail pain, discoloration, or swelling, it can be difficult to tell whether the problem is toenail fungus or an ingrown toenail, or in some cases, both. These are two of the most common nail conditions treated in podiatry, and their early symptoms can overlap enough to cause confusion. In this guide, Fall Creek Foot & Ankle explains how to recognize the differences between toenail fungus and ingrown nails, what causes each condition, and when it’s time to get professional care.
What Toenail Fungus Is and How It Develops
Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is an infection involving the nail plate or nail bed. It occurs when fungi, often dermatophytes, enter through tiny cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. Warm, moist environments such as shoes, locker rooms, and public pools make fungus easy to contract.
Common Symptoms of Toenail Fungus
- Yellow, white, or brown discoloration
- Thickened or crumbly nail texture
- Flaky debris under the nail
- Nail lifting or separating from the nail bed
- Mild discomfort when wearing shoes
Because fungal infections progress slowly, early symptoms are often mistaken for irritation, making it easy to confuse ingrown toenail vs fungus, especially when the nail thickens or changes shape.
What an Ingrown Toenail Is and How It Starts
An ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) occurs when the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This leads to inflammation, swelling, and sometimes infection. Ingrown nails are especially common in the big toe but can affect any toenail.
Common Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
- Redness, swelling, or warmth along one side of the nail
- Sharp pain when walking or wearing shoes
- Tenderness when touching the nail border
- Drainage or pus if infected
- Skin sometimes growing over the nail edge
Tight shoes, improper nail trimming, toe trauma, and naturally curved nails are common triggers. Unlike fungus, ingrown nails typically cause significant pain early on.
Some people are more prone to ingrown nails due to inherited nail shape. You can learn more in our guide: Are Ingrown Toenails Genetic?
Toenail Fungus vs Ingrown Toenail: Key Differences
Although toenail fungus and ingrown toenails can occur at the same time, they affect different structures and produce distinct symptoms.
Appearance:
- Fungus affects the entire nail, causing discoloration and thickening.
- Ingrown toenails affect the skin at the nail border, not the nail surface.
Pain:
- Fungus often causes mild or no pain in early stages.
- Ingrown toenails produce sharp tenderness that worsens with pressure.
Location:
- Fungus spreads across the nail plate.
- Ingrown nails focus on one edge or corner of the nail.
Swelling and Infection:
- Fungus rarely causes drainage.
- Ingrown toenails can easily become infected, with warmth and pus present.
When fungal thickening pushes the nail downward or sideways, both conditions may overlap, leading to confusion about nail fungus and ingrown toenails and which one to treat first.
Can Toenail Fungus Cause Ingrown Toenails?
Yes, sometimes it can. When fungus makes the nail thick, curved, or distorted, the nail edge may begin pressing into the surrounding skin. In these cases, a patient may develop an ingrown toenail from fungus, especially when debris under the nail causes additional pressure.
You may be dealing with both conditions if you notice:
- A thickened or curved nail edge
- Discoloration along with swelling or redness
- Pain that worsens in shoes
- Skin irritation beside a fungal nail
This makes proper diagnosis especially important.
What You Can Treat at Home and What You Should Avoid
Some mild cases of toenail fungus and ingrown nails can be managed with basic care, but only under safe conditions.
Toenail Fungus Home Care (Early Stages Only)
- Antifungal creams or solutions
- Keeping nails dry and clean
- Wearing breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks
However, fungus often requires professional treatment to fully resolve, especially when the nail is thick or painful.
Ingrown Toenail Home Care (Very Mild Only)
- Warm saltwater soaks
- Avoiding tight shoes
- Temporarily wearing open-toed footwear
Do not attempt to cut, dig out, or “wedge” the nail at home. These methods frequently worsen the condition and increase infection risk, especially when symptoms mimic toenail fungus ingrown nail irritation.
When to See a Podiatrist
Professional care is recommended if you experience:
- Spreading nail discoloration or thickening
- Persistent swelling along the nail edge
- Warmth, drainage, pus, or signs of infection
- Difficulty walking or wearing shoes
- Symptoms that worsen despite gentle home care
- Recurring episodes of ingrown toenails
Patients with diabetes, neuropathy, or circulation problems should seek podiatric care at the first sign of toenail fungus or an ingrown toenail. Even mild cases can progress quickly and should not be treated at home.
A podiatrist can determine whether the issue is fungus, an ingrown nail, or a combination of both and guide you to the appropriate treatment.
Professional Treatment Options
For Ingrown Toenails
- In-office trimming or removal of the nail edge
- Antibiotics if infection is present
- Toenail removal for recurring ingrown nails
For Toenail Fungus
- Debridement (thinning the nail)
- Prescription topical or oral antifungals
- Laser treatment
- Prevention guidance for reducing moisture and reinfection
You Don’t Have to Diagnose It Alone
Distinguishing between toenail fungus and ingrown nails can be difficult, but both conditions are very treatable with proper care. If you’re unsure what you’re dealing with, a podiatrist can help you get clear answers and the right treatment.
Fall Creek Foot & Ankle can evaluate your symptoms, identify the cause, and guide you toward safe, effective relief. Book your visit today to get the care and clarity you need.