PSI Texas State Board Nail Tech Practice Exam

Discoloration of the nail is indeed a common symptom of a fungal nail infection. This condition usually leads to changes in the nail's color, which may appear yellow, brown, or even greenish, depending on the type of fungus involved and the severity of the infection. As the fungus proliferates within or under the nail, it disrupts normal nail cell growth, causing these noticeable color changes.

Fungal nail infections can also lead to other symptoms, but they are not primarily characterized by those. For example, while peeling of the skin can occur with various skin conditions, it is not a direct symptom of a fungal nail infection. Puffiness around the nail may indicate inflammation or other infections but is not the hallmark sign of fungal infections specifically. Similarly, a foul odor might be present in some cases, but it is not a universal or defining characteristic of fungal nail infections. The discoloration, however, serves as a prominent visual cue that helps identify the presence of a fungal infection, making it an essential symptom to recognize in nail care and maintenance.