A thick, yellowish nail with white splotchy areas is a classic case of fungal toenail.  In the early stages the toenail is only slightly discolored, or slightly thickened.  In the late stages the nail can become very thick and tends to grow up as much as it grows out.  In some cases the nail becomes very loose and many patients will lose the nail, only for it to grow back with the fungus. The causes of toenail fungus are varied.  They include picking up the fungus from gym and swimming area floors, showers and saunas. 

The most effective method to treat toenail fungus is with oral anti-fungal medications that can be prescribed by the physicians at Hosey Foot and Ankle Centers.