Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that can affect one or more of the nails on the toes. The infection typically starts at the edge of the nail and can spread to the entire nail if left untreated. The fungus can cause the nails to become thick, discolored, brittle, and deformed. In some cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed and there may be a foul odor. Risk factors for developing toenail fungus include having a history of athlete's foot, wearing tight shoes, having a medical condition such as diabetes, or having a weakened immune system. Toenail fungus can be treated with antifungal medication, either topically or orally, and it is important to keep the feet clean and dry to prevent the spread of the fungus.
Toenail fungus is caused by a variety of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.
Dermatophytes are a type of fungus that typically infects the skin, hair, and nails. They can cause toenail fungus by entering the nail through small cuts or breaks in the skin. Yeasts and molds are also types of fungi that can cause toenail fungus. They thrive in warm, moist environments and can infect the nails by entering the skin through small cuts or breaks. These fungi can infect the nails, and they thrive in warm, moist environments such as inside shoes or in damp communal areas like locker rooms or showers.
Symptoms of toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, can include thickened nails, discoloration of the nails, and separation of the nail from the nail bed. The nails may become thickened, yellow, brown or white, brittle, and deformed. As the fungus spreads, the nails may become crumbly and separate from the nail bed. There may also be a foul odor. In some cases, the infection can cause pain, discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes. These symptoms can be caused by other conditions as well, so it is important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.
Toenail fungus is more common in older adults, people with diabetes, and those with a weakened immune system. As we age, the nails grow slower and become thicker, which can make them more susceptible to infection. People with diabetes are more likely to develop toenail fungus because they may have poor circulation in their feet and are more likely to have a weakened immune system. Those with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV or undergoing chemotherapy, are also more susceptible to toenail fungus because their body may not be able to fight off the infection as effectively. Additionally, people who have a history of athlete's foot, have a family history of toenail fungus, have a nail injury, or have a fungal infection elsewhere in the body, are also at an increased risk of developing toenail fungus.
Toenail fungus can be treated with antifungal medications, either applied topically or taken orally. Topical antifungal medications are applied directly to the infected nail and are usually used for mild cases of toenail fungus. Oral antifungal medications, on the other hand, are taken by mouth and are typically used for more severe cases of toenail fungus. The most common oral medications are terbinafine and itraconazole. However, it's important to note that it can take several months to see improvement and complete cure rates may vary from 40-60%.
In some cases, the infected nail may need to be removed if the fungus has caused significant damage or if other treatments are not effective. This procedure is known as a partial or complete nail avulsion and is typically performed by a podiatrist. After the nail is removed, antifungal medication is applied to the remaining nail bed to prevent the fungus from returning.
It's important to keep in mind that prevention is key, and maintaining good hygiene, keeping the feet dry, and avoiding sharing personal items like socks or shoes can help prevent the spread of toenail fungus.