Warning Signs Of Onychomycosis

Distorted Shape To The Nails

A fungal infection can cause a distorted shape to the nails over time. They begin to grow in ways other than straight, partially because of the fungus below the fibers and partially because of nail thickening causing problems. Nails might develop ridges, which are small and raised lines that develop either horizontally or vertically along the surface of the nail. Patients might notice their nail is pitted in one or more areas. Pitting indicates the nail is unhealthy and may be crumbling. In serious cases, the nail can loosen entirely and fall off. Abnormally shaped fingernails can also be due to a condition called koilonychia, which causes the nail to become curved inward and develop raised ridges on the surface. In addition to fungal infections, this type of shape abnormality is commonly associated with anemia due to an iron deficiency.