Nail fungus is a common problem that affects both fingernails and toenails, but it is more prevalent in toenails. This infection is caused by a parasitic fungus that attacks keratin, a protein found in nails. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods for toenail fungus, using expert advice from Ozée. Stay tuned for the following few lines.
Toenail fungus is a fungal infection of the nails that mainly affects the toenails. This infection causes the nails to change color to white, yellow, or brown, making the nails thicker, cracking, and sometimes crumbling. This condition may cause pain and discomfort and can significantly affect the appearance of the nails. Multiple types of fungi, such as dermatophytes, molds, and yeasts, cause toenail fungus.
Toenail fungus infection can be caused by various factors and conditions that create an environment for fungal growth, including:
Moist and Warm Environments: Places like swimming pools, public changing rooms, and closed shoes that do not allow the feet to breathe are ideal for fungal growth.
Wearing Tight Shoes: Wearing tight, closed shoes for long periods creates a moist and warm environment around the feet, facilitating fungal growth.
Weak Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems, whether due to diseases like diabetes or certain medications, are more susceptible to fungal infections.
Skin Infections: Small injuries to the skin around or under the nails can lead to fungal growth.
Aging: Older people are more susceptible to nail fungus due to decreased blood flow to the nails, slower growth, and a weakened immune system.
Excessive Sweating: Individuals who suffer from excessive sweating in their feet are more prone to fungal infections due to constant humidity.
Sharing Personal Tools: Sharing foot and nail care tools, such as scissors and clippers, with an infected person can transmit the fungus.
Chronic Diseases: Conditions like diabetes and peripheral vascular disease increase the risk of fungal infection due to poor blood circulation and difficulty recovering from injuries.
Toenail fungus infection can manifest through a range of clear symptoms that vary in severity depending on the degree of infection and the type of fungus causing it. The most prominent symptoms are:
Nail Discoloration: Affected nails turn white, yellow, or brown, and colored spots or lines may appear under the nail.
Increased Nail Thickness: Nails become noticeably thicker, making trimming difficult.
Nail Brittleness and Breakage: Affected nails may become brittle and easy to break, with parts of them falling apart.
Nail Deformity: Nails can become deformed and irregular in shape, changing their natural appearance.
Separation of Nails from the Skin: In severe cases, nails may separate from the nail bed, causing pain and discomfort.
Bad Odor: Infected nails may produce a foul odor due to the fungal infection.
Pain and Discomfort: The affected person may feel pain and discomfort around the nail, especially when wearing shoes or putting pressure on the nails.
Itching and Irritation: The infection may be accompanied by itching and irritation in the skin surrounding the nail.
Treating toenail fungus requires patience and commitment, which may take a long time. Several treatment options are available, from home remedies to medications a doctor prescribes. The most prominent methods include:
Antifungal ointments and creams, such as terbinafine, can be applied directly to the affected nails. These treatments are available both by prescription and over the counter. Nail polishes containing antifungals can also be used and applied daily to the affected nails.
Oral antifungal medications, such as itraconazole, help eliminate the fungal infection from within. These treatments usually last from 6 to 12 weeks, but results will appear after a few months when the nail grows back.
Lasers can be used to kill fungi under the nails. Although this method may be effective, it can be expensive and may not always be available. It is one of the modern treatments that may contribute to killing fungi.
Soaking the feet in a diluted solution of vinegar and water helps reduce fungal growth. Tea tree oil, known for its antifungal properties, can be applied topically to the affected nails.
Preventing toenail fungus requires following a set of procedures and advice that contribute to reducing the risk of contracting this infection, including:
Wash your feet daily with soap and water, especially between the toes.
Dry your feet well after washing, making sure to dry the area between the toes.
Choose shoes that allow your feet to be ventilated, and avoid wearing tight, closed shoes for long periods.
Use shoes made of natural materials, such as leather, which enable your feet to breathe.
Use cotton socks or those made of moisture-absorbing materials, and change them daily.
Avoid wearing damp or wet socks for long periods.
Avoid walking barefoot in damp places such as locker rooms and gyms.
Trim your nails regularly and straight, avoiding over-cutting them or leaving sharp edges.
Do not share nail care tools with others.
Use antifungal powder to keep your feet dry and reduce moisture.
Toenail fungus is a common but preventable condition. By following proper hygiene practices, wearing appropriate footwear, and taking preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Early treatment is crucial for effective management and recovery if symptoms do appear. Prioritize foot care to maintain healthy and fungus-free nails.
