Onychomycosis is a fungal nail infection that discolors, thickens, and separates from the nail bed.
Thick toenails are a common issue, particularly among older adults. One of the primary causes of thick toenails is toenail fungus, which can make the nails appear yellow, brittle, and difficult to trim. When fungi infect the nail, they penetrate deep, causing thickening and hardening. This can also result in discoloration and rough texture.
Warts stem from a virus, displaying a rough texture, while corns form due to pressure or friction, featuring a hardened center.
Corns and warts may look similar but are quite different in terms of cause, appearance, and treatment. Corns are hardened layers of skin that develop due to repeated friction and pressure, commonly from tight shoes or abnormal foot structure. They are most often found on the tops or sides of toes and have a small, dense center surrounded by inflamed skin. Corns are the body’s natural way of protecting the skin, and they are not contagious.
Plantar Warts, a rough, skin-colored bump that grows on the bottom of the foot or toes.
Foot warts and corns are often confused, but they have different causes and characteristics. Warts on the feet, also known as plantar warts, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions, leading to the growth of a rough, grainy skin lesion. Foot warts are contagious and can spread in communal areas such as pools, showers, and locker rooms where the virus thrives in moist environments.
Fungal toenail infections, also known as onychomycosis, can be difficult to treat effectively. While antifungal creams, such as those containing terbinafine, can help in mild cases, the success of these treatments depends on the severity of the infection and how deeply it has penetrated the nail.
Calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop as a response to repeated pressure or friction, often from wearing tight shoes or walking barefoot on hard surfaces. While calluses on your feet can serve as a protective barrier, they sometimes become painful and uncomfortable, leading many to wonder if they will ever go away on their own.
During pregnancy, many women experience swollen ankles, especially as they progress toward the third trimester. This is due to the body retaining more fluid to support the baby’s growth and the increased pressure from the expanding uterus on the blood vessels in the pelvis and legs, which causes fluid buildup in the lower extremities. Hormones like relaxin also contribute by loosening ligaments in preparation for childbirth, making joints more prone to swelling.
