MyLupusTeam

That thick, white chalky buildup under the toenails sounds like it could be a fungal nail infection, which can be more common for people with lupus. Some lupus medications can actually increase the risk of developing fungal infections, which can cause nails to become thick, brittle, and discolored.

Here are some tips to help Show Full Answer

That thick, white chalky buildup under the toenails sounds like it could be a fungal nail infection, which can be more common for people with lupus. Some lupus medications can actually increase the risk of developing fungal infections, which can cause nails to become thick, brittle, and discolored.

Here are some tips to help manage and prevent fungal nail issues:

- Keep nails clean and trimmed short
- Try to keep nails as dry as possible, since fungus thrives in moisture
- Avoid going barefoot in public places like pools or gym showers — flip-flops are your friend!
- Wear clean socks daily and breathable shoes that aren't too tight
- If you suspect a fungal infection, treat it promptly It's worth bringing this up with a rheumatologist or dermatologist, especially since it's been going on for three years. Some treatments may only be available by prescription, and a professional can confirm exactly what's going on and recommend the best course of action.

The good news is that once lupus is well-managed, nail problems sometimes improve on their own too!

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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