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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Pain And Discoloration On The Toe Nails?

I have discoloration and pain in one of my large toenails. The discoloration has been there for at least a month but just began throbbing badly and swelling last night. I was assuming it was a bruise but now am unsure if it may be a fungus. How can I tell? I ve looked online but it could fit several things.
Wed, 30 Aug 2017
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  User's Response
Hi there,

There are a number of things that can cause discoloration of toe nails.

If it is just one of your toenails, it may be that you've damaged the nail by an injury or by the type of shoes you are wearing, and it may just need time to heal.

If it's painful, it may be possible that you have an infection in the area, and that you need treatment with antibiotics or possibly drainage of the area. Fungus usually won't cause pain, throbbing and swelling, I'd be worried that you have an infection at this point.

I'd recommend you see either a physician or podiatrist. If you have an infection you'll likely need antibiotics to clear it up.

I hope I have answered your questions. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions or if you feel I haven't addressed your question adequately.
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What Causes Pain And Discoloration On The Toe Nails?

Hi there, There are a number of things that can cause discoloration of toe nails. If it is just one of your toenails, it may be that you ve damaged the nail by an injury or by the type of shoes you are wearing, and it may just need time to heal. If it s painful, it may be possible that you have an infection in the area, and that you need treatment with antibiotics or possibly drainage of the area. Fungus usually won t cause pain, throbbing and swelling, I d be worried that you have an infection at this point. I d recommend you see either a physician or podiatrist. If you have an infection you ll likely need antibiotics to clear it up. I hope I have answered your questions. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions or if you feel I haven t addressed your question adequately.