Toenail Fungus

Fungal infections are all too common. Athletes' feet, ringworm, and toenail fungus are all caused by different types of fungi and can be difficult to get rid of. Toenail fungus is a particularly stubborn infection that often requires treatment from a doctor. If you're dealing with toenail fungus, don't despair—there are many ways to treat it. In this post, we'll discuss the causes and symptoms of toenail fungus, as well as the various ways to treat it. We'll also provide some tips for preventing fungal infections in the future.

 

What is Toenail Fungus?   

Toenail fungus is a common condition that can cause your toenails to become discoloured, thickened, and brittle. The fungus can also spread to the skin around your nails, causing itching, redness, and scaling.

Although toenail fungus is usually not painful, it can be difficult to get rid of. But some treatments can help.

 

What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a very common problem. It's caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, such as public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. The fungi can also live on your skin and nails.

The most common symptom of toenail fungus is a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail. As the fungus spreads deeper into your nail, it may cause your nail to become thickened, discoloured, and brittle. It can also cause pain in your toes or fingers when the nail is touched.

If you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor blood circulation to your feet, you're at a higher risk for developing toenail fungus. Other risk factors include having your feet in moist environments for long periods and having minor skin or nail injuries.

 

What symptoms of Toenail Fungus?

One of the most common symptoms of toenail fungus is a change in the colour of the nail. The nail may become yellow, brown, or black. It may also become thickened or brittle. In some cases, toenail fungus can cause pain or discomfort. If the infection spreads, it can even lead to serious health problems.

If you think you might have toenail fungus, it's important to see a doctor right away so that the infection doesn't spread. Treatment for toenail fungus can be difficult, and it's important to get started on it as soon as possible.

Some other symptoms of toenail fungus include:

• Nails that are discoloured. (yellow, brown, or black)
     
• Nails that are thickened or brittle.
     
• Nails that have a bad odour.
     
• Pain or discomfort in the nails or toe area.
     
• The infection spreads to other parts of the body. (such as the skin)

If you think you might have toenail fungus, it's important to see a doctor right away so that the infection doesn't spread. Treatment for toenail fungus can be difficult, and it's important to get started on it as soon as possible.

 

Who Is at Risk for Toenail Fungus?

Anyone can get toenail fungus, but some people are more likely than others to develop the condition. You're more likely to get toenail fungus if you:

• Are over age 60.

• Have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation.

• Have a history of athlete's foot.

• Have your feet frequently exposed to moisture.

• Wear tight-fitting shoes or socks that don't allow your feet to breathe.

• Have nail trauma, such as from stubbing your toe or having your toenails cut too short.

 

How Is Toenail Fungus Treated?

There are several over-the-counter and prescription treatments available for toenail fungus. But it can be difficult to get rid of the fungus completely, and the fungus may come back.

Some people choose not to treat toenail fungus because the condition is not painful and does not have any other health consequences. But if you're bothered by the way your nails look, some treatments can help.

Over-the-Counter Treatments   

There are several over-the-counter treatments available for toenail fungus. These include antifungal nail creams and ointments, as well as oral medications.

Examples of over-the-counter treatments include:

• Clotrimazole (Lotrimin)

• Miconazole (Micatin)

• Terbinafine (Lamisil AT)

Prescription Treatments

If over-the-counter treatments don't work, your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication. These include oral antifungal medications, such as:

• Itraconazole (Sporanox)

• Fluconazole (Diflucan)

• Terbinafine (Lamisil)

Your doctor may also prescribe a topical medication, such as ciclopirox (Penlac).

 

How Can Prevent Toenail Fungus?

 To help prevent toenail fungus:

• Keep your feet clean and dry. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes, after bathing or swimming.

• Wear socks made of breathable materials, such as cotton or wool. Avoid wearing sweaty shoes or tight-fitting shoes that don't allow your feet to breathe.

• Wear sandals or flip-flops in public places, such as locker rooms, showers, and pools.

• Don't share nail clippers or other personal items with someone who has toenail fungus.

• Disinfect nail salon tools before each use.

• If you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation, see your doctor regularly to check for early signs of toenail fungus.

Left untreated, toenail fungus can lead to more serious problems, such as cellulitis (a bacterial skin infection) and paronychia (an infection of the tissue around the nail). If you have diabetes, toenail fungus can also cause foot ulcers (sores) that can lead to amputation.

If you think you have toenail fungus, see your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the condition from getting worse.