What Is Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an infection that occurs underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. These tiny organisms thrive in warm, moist environments and can easily take hold in the toenails, leading to a variety of symptoms. Affected nails often become darker in color and emit a foul odor. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, and white marks frequently appear on the nail. The infection can spread to other toenails, the skin, and even the fingernails. If ignored, the infection can impair your ability to work or walk, as the resulting thicker nails are difficult to trim and can cause pain when wearing shoes. Additionally, onychomycosis can be accompanied by secondary bacterial or yeast infections in or around the nail plate.
Causes of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is challenging to avoid due to the ubiquitous nature of microscopic organisms like fungi. Toenails are particularly vulnerable in damp areas where people are likely to walk barefoot, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Several factors can increase the susceptibility to fungal infections, including:
- Injury to the Nail Bed: Even minor injuries or pressure from shoes can make the nail bed more susceptible to fungal infections.
- Chronic Diseases: Individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency disorders are more prone to fungal nails.
- Athlete’s Foot History: A history of athlete’s foot can increase the likelihood of developing toenail fungus.
- Excessive Perspiration: Excessive sweating creates a moist environment that is conducive to fungal growth.
Symptoms of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus often goes unnoticed because it can persist for years without causing pain. However, the infection is characterized by a progressive change in the quality and color of the toenail, which can be unsightly and embarrassing. Symptoms include:
- Discoloration of the nail, often turning yellow, brown, or white
- Thickening of the nail, making it difficult to trim
- Brittle, crumbly, or ragged nail texture
- Distorted nail shape
- Foul odor emanating from the infected nail
- Debris buildup under the nail
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
Home Treatment: Limitations and Risks
While some home remedies can temporarily suppress mild infections, they often fall short of providing a lasting solution. Common home treatments include:
- Daily Cleansing: Maintaining a daily cleansing routine over several months can help manage mild infections.
- Filing and Antifungal Agents: White markings on the nail surface can be filed off, followed by the application of over-the-counter liquid antifungal agents.
Despite these efforts, even the best over-the-counter treatments may not prevent the fungal infection from returning. Moreover, trying to treat the infection without professional guidance can lead to further complications.
When to Visit a Podiatrist
It is essential to visit a podiatrist at the first sign of toenail discoloration, thickening, or deformity. Early intervention by a professional significantly increases the chances of successfully clearing the infection. A podiatrist can detect a fungal infection early, perform necessary lab tests to determine the cause, and formulate a suitable treatment plan.