Fungal Toenails

Fungal Nail Infection Symptoms

Toenail fungus treatment in the Dallas County, TX: Dallas (Garland, Richardson, Addison, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, University Park, Highland Park, Irving, Cockrell Hill, Duncanville, Hutchins, Lancaster, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Grand Prairie, Glenn Heights) and Ellis County, TX: Red Oak, Oak Leaf, Ovilla areasToenail fungus is a condition that many people develop and suffer from. Toenail fungus often results in the discoloration and thickening of the toenail, which can cause embarrassment for many people. The condition begins as a small white or yellow growth beneath the tip of the nail and at its worse can develop into the nail’s deterioration.

Fungal toenails form due to an infection that gets in between either the cracks in the nail or possible cuts on the surrounding skin. When this occurs, it’s likely to discolor and thicken the nail; this makes it hard to care for or trim. The nail itself may also become brittle and could potentially crumble. The fungus under the nail may build over time, separating the nail from the bed and ultimately causing it to fall off if not treated properly.

Fungal nails typically form due to the lack of footwear in public, warm, damp environments. Popular areas where patients have picked up a fungal infection include communal showers, locker rooms, gyms, and swimming pools. If you’re prone to sweaty feet, you may be more likely to develop a fungal nail as well. You may also be more likely to develop a fungal nail if you have a weaker immune system or have a history with athlete’s foot.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus can also be treated with certain over-the-counter antifungal creams and ointments. To remove pressure from the nails, keep them cut at a short length. Oral antifungal drugs, medicated nail cream, or medicated nail polish may also be prescribed by your podiatrist if simpler treatments do not prove successful. In some cases, your podiatrist may also recommend laser treatment to eradicate toenail fungus.

For a proper diagnosis and advised treatment plan, it’s recommended that you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible for professional care and to prevent the infection from spreading.

Toenail Fungus (FAQs)

What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?
Fungal toenail infections can often be seen with the naked eye because they change the appearance of the toenail. If you have toenail fungus, the affected toenails may change in texture, becoming thickened, brittle, or crumbly. They can also become discolored, usually turning yellow, white, or brown. In more severe cases, the nail can become deformed, separate from the nail bed, and even emit a foul odor. In addition to being unsightly, toenail fungus can also cause pain, especially if infected nails rub against your shoes and socks.
Is toenail fungus contagious?
Toenail fungus is highly contagious. It can spread from one nail to the next, especially if left untreated. It can spread from an infected surface, like the floor of a public pool, to the nails. It can also spread from person to person through direct contact or sharing personal items like shoes, socks, or manicure tools.
What are the treatments for toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus can be treated with topical or oral antifungal medications. Topical medications are applied directly to the nail. They usually come in the form of a cream or nail polish. Oral antifungal medications are taken by mouth. Laser treatments for fungal nail infections are becoming an increasingly common treatment option. Laser treatments use a concentrated beam of light to kill the fungus beneath the nail. Your podiatrist may recommend doing multiple forms of treatment simultaneously to get better or faster results.
How long does it take for toenail fungus to go away?
Unfortunately, curing toenail fungus is a lengthy process. Not only will you have to wait for the treatment to kill the fungal infection - you will also have to wait for new, healthy toenails to grow out. This can take several months.

 

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