If pus is coming out of your toenail, it’s time to check into our urgent care clinic in Lenoir. We’re open daily – no appointment needed. 

It happens so slowly you never notice it sometimes. One day you’re playing laser tag at Bo’s and the next thing you know – your toenail is aching. Before too long, it’s turned into constant pain, something clearly isn’t right. The pus coming out of your toenail is the final straw, you’re definitely concerned, but what’s wrong?  

The presence of pus almost always means that there’s an infection. While toenail and even fingernail infections are common, they shouldn’t be taken lightly. 

Here’s how your toenail got infected, advice for when to seek medical care and the ways that our local urgent care clinic can help.  

 Visit AFC Lenoir today! 

What Is Pus? 

Toenail pus is easily identifiable by its thick fluid composed of dead tissue, bacteria and dying white blood cells. While considered unpleasant, pus is a part of your body’s natural defense system. To help your body fight off infections, white blood cells are sent to the infection site. Eventually some of those cells die and mix with tissues and fluids to form pus.  

Pus can be a few different colors. Specifically, toenail pus is usually: white, yellow, green or even brown, and sometimes has a strong odor. Typically, if pus is present then the infection is bacterial; however certain fungal, parasitic or viral infections can also create pus. 

Are There Other Signs My Toenail Is Infected? 

Yes, pus is not the only symptom of an infected toenail. There could also be: 

• Redness and inflammation 
• Soreness and pain 
• Cracked, thickened or yellowed toenails 

These symptoms are usually related to ingrown toenails, but can also develop from other types of nail-related infections.  

How Did My Toenail Get Infected? 

When the skin around your toenail becomes infected this is known as paronychia. It begins as a small cut or irritation that allows bacteria to enter. Paronychia can occur around your toenails and fingernails. 

It is commonly caused by: 

• Cutting nails too short 
• Cutting or picking the skin around the nails 
• Ingrown toenails 

Some people have a harder time battling infections, making them more prone to paronychia than others. These types of people include: 

• Those with diabetes and weakened immune systems 
• People with poor circulation 

When to Seek Medical Help 

The severity of your symptoms will determine whether a medical professional should intervene. If a condition such as an ingrown toenail is caught early on, infection can be prevented by using at-home remedies. 

• Mild symptoms: If your ingrown toenail is slightly red or sore without pus, you may be able to manage it at home. A simple soak in warm water with salt can ease pain, reduce swelling and soften the nail, making it easier to gently lift it to its correct position. 
• Severe symptoms: Pus, foul odors, increasing redness and swelling and fever mean it’s time to see a healthcare provider. All these signs indicate that the infection has advanced and now, most likely requires prescription treatment.  

How Does AFC Treat Infected Toenails? 

The culprit of the infection dictates what kind of treatment we provide. 

• Bacterial infections: Typically treated with antibiotic creams or oral antibiotics. 
• Fungal infections: Prescribed or over the counter antifungal creams could work. Stubborn infections may need a prescription cream or pill. 
• Ingrown toenails with infection: Antibiotics can be prescribed to clear up the infection or reduce it. However, for more extensive cases we will perform a minor (non-surgical) procedure to remove part of the nail. 
  • Serious infections: In extreme situations, AFC will refer you to a local podiatrist who may have to surgically remove the whole nail. 

Preventing Toenail Infections 

The best way to avoid toenail infections is by taking proper care of your feet. Here are some of our most helpful tips: 

• Trim nails evenly: Cut nails evenly straight across. Cutting toenails in a curve increases the risk of ingrown nails. 
• Appropriate footwear: Pressure on the toe can lead to ingrown toenails.  
• Dry and clean feet: Keeping feet dry and clean is crucial when preventing infections. Wash your feet daily, thoroughly dry them and change socks every day. 
• Check feet regularly: Early detection can prevent infections or stop them in their tracks. Those with diabetes, weakened immune systems and athletes are highly encouraged to check their feet often. 

Final Thoughts 

Pus emitting from your toenail is never a good sign, which is why AFC Lenoir is here to help. Home-remedies can treat minor ingrown toenails, but foul odors, pus and worsening pain means it’s time to walk into our clinic. Whether we’re simply examining your toe, prescribing an antibiotic cream or removing a small part of the nail, AFC is here to make the process as painless as possible.  

AFC accepts most major insurances and offers competitive self-pay options. It can be stressful dealing with an infected toenail, so don’t worry about the rest. AFC is here to bring you relief so you can live life uninterrupted.