What is nail fungus?
Toenail fungus generally begins as a white or yellow spot at the end of your nail plate. It may cause your nail to discolor, thicken, and crumble at the edges.
Multiple nails can be affected, and while toenail fungus isn’t contagious between people, the infection can spread from toe to toe. Most nail fungus doesn’t present any other symptoms, but some people consider them a cosmetic problem or experience pain.
If the fungus infects areas between your toes, this is called athlete’s foot.
What are the symptoms of nail fungus?
You might have toenail fungus if your toenails are:
- Discolored, turning white, yellow, or brown
- Thickened
- Brittle and crumbling
- Distorted
- Releasing a foul odor
Some deformed, thickened, or discolored nails aren’t due to fungal infections, but rather caused by an issue such as trauma, birth defects, the use of certain medications and drugs, circulatory problems, or other medical conditions.
What causes nail fungus?
Fungal nail infections are limited to the skin and nails and don’t spread through your bloodstream. The infections may be caused by a number of fungal organisms or fungi. The most common type of fungus is dermatophyte.
The cause of nail fungus infection isn’t clear, but certain factors are believed to play a part, such as:
- Mold and yeast
- Small bone spurs under the toenail
- Decreased blood circulation to the feet
- Weakened immune system
- Excess sweating
- Aging
- History of athlete’s foot
- Walking barefoot in communal areas, such as swimming pools
- Psoriasis and other skin conditions
- A minor nail or skin injury
- Diabetes
Fungal nail infections are also more common in older adults.
How is nail fungus treated?
Dr. Giagnacova evaluates your toenail and may obtain a fungal culture test to ensure it’s, in fact, a fungus. Depending on your situation, Dr. Giagnacova may then recommend a number of treatments for your toenail fungus, including:
- Long-term oral medications
- Over-the-counter or prescription antifungal topical medications
- Surgical removal of the nail plate and fungus
- Laser treatment
- Trimming and thinning the nails
- Medicated nail polish
- Self-care instructions
Dr. Giagnacova might also recommend healthy lifestyle changes to help you combat the fungal infection, such as optimal nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management.
If you have a fungal infection that isn’t treated properly, it might lead to a blood infection, such as cellulitis. To learn more about toenail fungus and receive the highest standard of podiatric care, call Next Step Foot & Ankle in Philadelphia or use online booking to schedule an appointment today.