Can fungus cause thickened toenails?

Toe fungus causes thickened and discolored toenails, according to WebMD. Although not common, nail fungus may also cause pain in the toes or the fingers. It occurs after the entry of a microscopic fungus through the nail, and although it is more common in toenails, it also occurs in fingernails.

Anyone is subject to contracting nail fungus, but the problem is more prevalent in older people, diabetics and people with compromised immune systems, notes WebMD. The general course of treatment for nail fungus includes antifungal medications, nail lacquers, gels and topical creams. Oral antifungal medications are effective in treating around half of all nail fungus cases.