What type of nail is often associated with fungal infections?

Discolored or thick nails are often associated with fungal infections due to the nature of how such infections manifest on the nail plate. When a fungus infects the nail, it typically leads to changes in both color and texture. The affected nails may turn yellow, white, or even brown, and they often become thicker and more brittle over time. This is due to the fungus disrupting the normal growth of the nail, leading to accumulation and altered appearance.

In contrast, thin and brittle nails may indicate other conditions, such as nutritional deficiencies or environmental factors, but are not specifically a hallmark of fungal infections. Brightly colored nails typically result from nail polish or artificial enhancements rather than underlying infections. Short and trimmed nails do not provide any indication of infection and could reflect a person's grooming habits instead. Thus, discolored or thick nails serve as a key visual cue for identifying potential fungal issues.