What is a common sign of nail fungus?

Discoloration and separation of the nail from the nail bed are indeed common signs of a nail fungus infection. When a fungal infection occurs, it often leads to changes in the appearance of the nail, including yellowing, browning, or a general dullness in color. As the fungus progresses, the infected nail may become lifted from the nail bed, resulting in separation, which is typically painful and can lead to further complications if left untreated. This visibility of both discoloration and separation is crucial for recognizing a fungal infection early, allowing for prompt treatment to prevent worsening of the condition.

The other signs listed, such as excessive shine, frequent breakage, or a healthy pink color, do not typically indicate a fungal infection. Excessive shine is often a characteristic of well-maintained and healthy nails, frequent breakage might point to other issues like brittleness or underlying health problems, and a healthy pink color is usually a sign of good nail health, not infection.