Toenail Fungus: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Toenail fungus, known as ‘onychomycosis’ in medical terminology, is a very common problem and affects about half of Americans by the age of 70. A group of fungus called dermatophytes is the main cause behind this infection. Fungal infections occur when microscopic fungi gain entry through a small trauma in the nail, then grow and spread in the warm, moist environment inside the patient's socks and shoes.

Symptoms of toenail fungus, which can be caused by several types of fungi, include :

- Accumulation of smelly debris under the nail
- Thickening of the affected toenails
- Yellow or brown discoloration of the toenails
- Falling of nails
- Appearance of spots on the sides of nail

Fungal infections can affect the fingernails as well as the toenails, but toenail fungus is more difficult to treat because toenails grow more slowly. It occurs most often on the big toe finger or the little toe finger, but might occur on any toe.

CAUSES OF TOENAIL FUNGAL INFECTION

You may get affected by the toenail fungus in damp conditions at places like public gyms, shower stalls or swimming pools, and can be passed among family members. Toe nail fungus can spread from one toe to another or to other body parts. Athletes and people who give trauma to their toe by wear tight-fitting shoes or tight hosiery are at great risk of toe nail fungus.

Other reasons may be abnormal pH level of the skin, not drying off the feet thoroughly after bathing or exercise, and reduced immunity. Diabetics have an increased risk of contracting a toenail fungus because their immune system is compromised. They should have their nails cut and debrided by a podiatrist.

TOENAIL FUNGUS TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

Because it is difficult to treat or eradicate toenail fungus, it is a good idea to try to prevent it.

Wash your feet after visiting public places like swimming pools: The fungus thrives in warm moist areas like spas, swimming pools, showers or locker rooms. If you step on a warm puddle or floor, you can pick up the infection. After using such public places, it is ideal to wash your feet thoroughly and dry them well.

It helps to wear protective shoes or sandals in public showers, pool areas and gyms, and to avoid borrowing someone else's shoes or sharing socks, washcloths, towels or any other personal items with someone who has toenail fungus. An orthotic device can be used to add cushioning and/or control over-pronation, support the longitudinal arch, and reduce stress on the lower leg muscles.

Wash your feet regularly, and dry them thoroughly when they get wet. Wearing nail polish on the toes is not advised because it can seal in fungus and allow it to grow. Keep your nails cut short, and don't use nail polish. Trim your toenails regularly. Trim them into a straight line and then smooth the edges with a nail file.

Read more about Some natural ways to cure toenail fungus

‹ Previous Page