What to do about thickened and layered toenails

Nail thickening and layering of the toenails can generally be treated through dietary adjustments, physical therapy, and medication. Specific approaches are as follows:

1. Dietary Attention

Inadequate nutritional intake in daily life, such as deficiencies in trace elements like calcium and zinc, may lead to abnormal toenail growth. It is important to ensure sufficient nutrition by consuming more protein-, vitamin-, and mineral-rich foods, such as eggs, milk, and carrots.

2. Physical Therapy

This typically involves methods such as laser treatment, photodynamic therapy, or iontophoresis to inhibit bacterial growth and thereby improve therapeutic outcomes.

3. Medication

When toenails thicken in patches, it is often considered tinea unguium (fungal nail infection), which is associated with fungal infection. For fungal infections, antifungal medications should be used promptly under medical guidance. Topical treatments such as Daktarin (miconazole) cream or clotrimazole cream are usually applied first. If necessary, oral medications such as itraconazole capsules or terbinafine tablets may be prescribed.

In addition, surgical treatment may also be considered. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention for appropriate examinations and diagnosis to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Meanwhile, maintain clean and dry feet, trim toenails regularly, use medications to relieve symptoms, and pay attention to diet and footwear choices.