What Are the Signs of an Infected Toenail, and How Is It Treated?

You can tell a toenail is infected if you notice certain signs. For example, a bacterial infection often causes the skin around the toenail to become red, swollen and painful, and it might feel warm or produce pus or a foul smell. If the infection is fungal, your toenail might look yellow or white, feel thickened, and sometimes even lift off the nail bed. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection. For bacterial infections, a common approach is to soak the foot in warm, soapy water to clean the area and soften the nail. After soaking, gently drying the nail and applying an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment, followed by covering it with a sterile bandage, can help. In some cases, a doctor might need to prescribe oral antibiotics. For fungal infections, antifungal creams or oral antifungal medications are usually recommended, depending on the severity. Keeping the nail clean and dry reduces the risk of further infection. If the infection does not improve or worsens, it is important to see a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.