Everything You Need to Know About Toenail Fungus

More formally known as onychomoycosis (on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis), this fairly common condition isn’t quite as scary as it may sound. However, it certainly can be quite unsightly and even uncomfortable or cause further problems if left untreated. Read on to learn more about what toenail fungus is, the symptoms, causes, treatments and repercussions of ignoring it.

What Is Toenail Fungus?

Both the finger and toenails can develop fungal infections, and they pretty much present themselves in the same fashion and require the same methods of recourse to eradicate. Onychomoycosis is characterized by a fungal infection of the nail region, and it can last for years and years unless it is addressed. When this fungus spreads to the skin between the toes and the feet, this is known as athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis. This can be prevented—along with numerous potential side effects—by seeking treatment from a foot and ankle specialist also known as a podiatrist.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

Quite a few individuals actually have toenail fungus for a long time without indicating any symptoms. However, symptoms usually appear within a few weeks of infection and slowly get worse over time. Unfortunately, most of these side effects are so minor that even those who realize ‘something’ isn’t right, they don’t seek treatment until the symptoms get worse. This can result in longer treatment times or more frequent recurrences post-resolution. Most sufferers will exhibit one or more of these common side effects of toenail fungus:

• Thickening of the nails, often seemingly filling the entire gap between the nail and underlying skin.
• The appearance of spots that are yellow, pinkish, whitish or brown beneath the nail.
• Rough, brittle nail edges.
• Toenails that begin curling under or curling in, often resulting in discomfort or skin infections.
• Accumulation of debris beneath the toenail.
• Slightly foul smells from the nails or debris.

Which or how many symptoms may be directly correlated to the cause of your particular case.

Common Causes of Toe Fungus

Fungal infections of the nail are caused by a variety of fungi, with the most typical source being a fungus known as dermatophyte while molds and yeast may also contribute. Nail fungus is most common in older adults whose nails have become dry and brittle, resulting in cracks that fungi invade. Those with diabetic conditions, a weakened immune system, or who suffer from minimized circulation in the feet are also more prone to toe fungus. Other sources include:

• Heavy foot sweating
• Chronic athletes foot
• Utilizing moist common areas like gyms, showers, pools, etc. while barefoot
• Minor skin conditions like psoriasis
• Skin or nail injuries

Armed with this information, let’s discuss some methods of recourse an experienced podiatrist can provide to eradicate nail fungus.

Treatment Options for Toenail Fungus

The most common treatments involve oral and/or topical ointments, polishes or creams used for  several weeks or months. Serious cases often require direct treatments like drilling the nail or surgical nail removal for direct treatment applications. However, today’s latest innovation are laser treatments for toenail fungus that are more than 95% effective without the use of anesthesia or oral medication.

Don’t Ignore Toe Fungus—Contact a Foot Specialist

Pretending it’s not there can result in all the symptoms of toenail fungus itself. For example, an early case that continues without treatment can result in malformed or ingrown nails, permanent toenail damage, reduced foot circulation and infections beyond the feet. Walk a bit easier…contact our Magnolia, TX or Woodlands, TX podiatrist here at Sweeney Foot & Ankle.