Toenail Fungus: Causes And Risk Factors
Toenail fungus is a fungal infection in the toenail. It happens when a fungus anything from mold to yeast to other types of fungus gets in the nail bed from a cut or break in the nail or repetitive trauma to the nail, and penetrates the nail itself, says Dr. Sundling. The nail then continues to grow with the fungus. Once a nail plate is infected with fungus, it will never not be infected, and you must wait to see how it grows out and whether the new nail growing behind it is healthy. The new nail rarely grows in healthy without treatment, says Sundling.
Toenail fungus is very common 14 percent of people have it in North America, according to an article published in the journal PLoS Pathogens and its more common the older you get, adds Sundling. Wearing shoes that are too small can damage the nail and make it more vulnerable to fungus, as can having a fungal infection on the skin of the foot and not treating it, which could expose the nail to fungus. You may be more at risk to toenail fungus if you have diabetes, or a weaker immune system.
What About Other Nail Care Tools
Its a similar scenario here. As we wrote in last months blog, nail and skin care tools like toenail clippers, nail files, and the like should never be shared from person-to-person. We also recommend you use separate clippers for toenails and fingernails, and clean and sterilize your tools after use.
Check out last months blog for more in-depth tips on preventing toenail fungus!
Bonus tip: although its tempting to try to deal with a fungal toenail by attempting to trim it as short as possible, this is usually counterproductive. Cutting your nail too short usually means more trauma to the nail bed and a greater opportunity for further infection.
Whos At Risk For Fungal Infections
There are many different causes of fungal nail infections. Each cause has a treatment of its own. Although many of the causes of a fungal nail infection are preventable, some risk factors increase the likelihood of developing one. Youre more likely to develop a fungal nail infection if you:
- wear closed-toe shoes, such as tennis shoes or boots
Nail infections occur more often in men than in women, and the infections are found in adults more often than in children. If you have family members who often get these types of fungal infections, youre more likely to get them as well.
Older adults have a high risk for getting fungal nail infections because they have poorer circulation. The nails also grow more slowly and thicken as we age.
A fungal infection of the nail may affect part of the nail, the entire nail, or several nails.
Common signs of a fungal nail infection include:
- a distorted nail that may lift off from the nail bed
- an odor coming from the infected nail
- a brittle or thickened nail
Read Also: How To Treat Fungus In Bermuda Grass
Tips To Keep Your Toes Fungus
Did you know that half of all nail diseases are caused by fungi? These tiny fungi sneak beneath your nail beds and can cause the toenails to become dark, brittle, and sometimes smelly.
While anyone can get toenail fungus , some people are at a greater risk. In fact, age, gender, genetics, overall health and many simple everyday habits can play a role in the development of a toenail fungal infection.
Here are the most common causes of toenail fungal infection, as well as how you can prevent toenail fungus and keep your feet healthy.
Why Is Toenail Polish Harmful
Toenail polish on its own isnt harmful. If you like to have perfectly polished toes, thats understandable. But its more important to give your toenails time to breathe once in a while.
The problem with nail polish is that it creates a seal over your toenails. Toenail fungus occurs when moisture gets trapped underneath the nail. Because our toes are usually in warm, moist, dark environments , we are creating an ideal setting for a fungus to grow and spread.
If you get a fungal infection, having nail polish on might make it harder to spot right away. Its best to treat toenail fungus early. So, if you cant see the earliest warning signs and symptoms, you could be making it harder for yourself to heal the problem later on.
You May Like: What Is The Safest Nail Polish Brand
You May Like: How To Get Rid Of Rust Fungus On Grass
Is It Safe To Use Toenail Polish After Treatment
All women want to have their feet look as attractive as possible. Yet, it is crucial for the toenail patient to know that a large contributor to toenail fungus is nail polish.
The fungus thrives in the dark and when the nail is covered by polish the result is a darkening or yellowing of the toenail. Another contributing factor involves closed shoes. They allow the fungus to grow and when toenails are painted, this simply adds to the growth.
If the toenail fungus is gone, it is okay to wear toenail polish. Yet, the larger concern should involve the healing of the toe and not the color of polish to wear.
So What Should You Do If You Develop A Nail Infection
Your first step should be to see a doctor. It can take weeks to fully clear an infection, says Dr. Andersen, so its crucial to get treatment as soon as possible.
Oral medication is the most effective treatment of all, says Dr. McGuire. Topical prescription treatments may also help. Theres a laser treatment that has a higher success rateabout 65% to 70%, says Dr. Andersenbut it can be pricey.
Other steps that can help you heal faster is to wear shoes that dont put pressure on your nails and keep your feet clean.
Recommended Reading: Does Tolnaftate Work On Toenail Fungus
Signs And Symptoms Of A Fungal Nail Infection
A fungal nail infection may not cause any obvious symptoms at first.
As it progresses, the infection can cause:
- discolouration of the nail it may turn white, black, yellow or green
- thickening and distortion of the nail it may become an unusual shape or texture and be difficult to trim
- pain or discomfort particularly when using or placing pressure on the affected toe or finger
- brittle or crumbly nails pieces may break off and come away completely
Sometimes the skin nearby may also become infected and be itchy and cracked or red and swollen.
How To Prevent Both Foot And Toenail Fungus
While toenail fungus and foot fungus arent the same condition, the following tips can help you prevent both, says Sundling:
- Practice good hygiene, such as keeping your feet clean.
- Alternate your shoes during the week. Your feet sweat all day long. Alternating your shoes allows them to dry out, so the fungus cant survive.
- Wear moisture-wicking socks that help dry out shoes and kill fungus. You can find these at running stores and athletic stores. If your socks are exceptionally sweaty, changing them more than once per day can help.
- Wear shoes in public places like locker rooms, pools, and gyms to limit exposure to fungus.
Don’t Miss: Can You Have Toenail Fungus For Years
Myth : It Means Discoloured And Crumbly Nails
“Most people are unaware what a fungal nail looks like. Misconceptions being that people believe fungal nail only appears as severely discoloured and crumbly nails. The early stages of fungal nails may just start with a simply discolouration and no change in texture of the nail. If you’re noticing different colours, it’s important to visit a specialist to advise what is happening to your toes.”
Wagenseller And The Fairfax Virginia Team Are Here
Is it ok to paint toenails with fungus. Dermatology Partners including Dr. It can make your toenail change color or get thicker. It contains acrylic and that prevents the moisture evaporating from the nail and it also prevents the sunlight from reaching the nail bed making it a darker place.
As long as there is not a fungal infection in your toenail. Send thanks to the doctor. Yet the larger concern should involve the healing of the toe and not the color of polish to wear.
Boric Acid Powder Cvs For Foot Fungus Athletes Foot Cream For Nail Fungus What S So Bad About Toe Nail Fungus. Toenail polish prevents moisture in the nail bed from evaporating. New anti-fungal non-toxic nail polish is now available.
Consider switching to safe anti-fungal nail polish to help avoid developing fungus toenails he also advises. Toenails are made up of multiple layers stacked on top of each other. Toenail fungus is an infection that gets in through cracks in your nail or cuts in your skin.
How To Paint Over Toenail Fungus Bleach Remove Toenail Fungus Argan Oil Helps Nail Fungus Problem Tea Tree Oil Fungus Toenail. Tea Tree Oil contains antibacterial and antifungal properties perfect for fighting toenail fungus. And fungal infections are notoriously difficult to get rid of.
The skilled team of professionals at US. Add 1-3 drops in your daily foot soak. When you have toenails fungal infections do not wear nail polish.
End The Suffering Of Toenail Fungus In Days.
Pin On Foot Care
Also Check: Can I Still Get My Nails Done With Nail Fungus
Toenail Fungus Medicated Nail Polish Treatment
Can I wear nail polish if I have toenail fungus? As mentioned above, there are nail polishes that are medicated so that you can look great and heal the condition at the same time. There are, however, things that you should do to keep your nails as healthy as possible.
If you have hard or brittle toenails, you need to make sure that you keep them as short as possible. When you have hard and brittle nails, you need to make sure that you use the best clippers for really thick toenails.
After taking a warm shower, or using a foot soak, gently file your nails. This will gradually get your nail down to its original thickness. The warm water will soften the nail. The more that you wear the polish, the more of the treatment will sink into the layers of the nail, killing the fungus.
Although other polishes claim to treat the fungus, we have found a select few that work particularly well. Finally, you can paint your toenails attractive colors while also healing your toenails.
You can also get Ciclopirox Nail Lacquer, which is only available via a medical prescription. It doesnt make the nails look more pretty, but its a convenient and effective treatment for people who may be short of time.
Drs Remedy Base Coat And Glaze Nail Polish
Applying glaze is the last step to give that glossy look to the nails, similarly, applying base can also secure the nails from extra damage. The Drs remedy two in one base coat will be an inexpensive nail accessory.
How is it?
This one base coat is a recommended one by the doctors, so it is definitely worth the try. It is not your ordinary nail base or glaze. It will strengthen your nails because it has the garlic bulb extract, and wheat protein.
Moreover, it has tea tree oil which will cure your toenail fungus if there is any, or make your toenail healthy.
Pros
You May Like: How Do You Treat Brown Patch Fungus
Can Otc Products Like Antifungal Nail Polish Cure An Infection
Substances like tea tree oil, coniferous resin lacquer, snake root extract, or ozonized sunflower oil have shown antifungal activities in invitro studies, but their action is minimal and not recommended, says James McGuire, D.P.M., associate professor at Temple Universitys School of Podiatric Medicine. In general, you are probably wasting your money and would do better to consult your podiatrist when you first notice a problem arise.
Unfortunately, antifungal nail polish is almost a definite no-no. If you have a fungal infection you want treatment, and nail polish is not treatment, says Dr. Andersen. It can even block light and air, which helps fight the infection, and it can make it harder for any topical treatment you are using to penetrate and do its job.
The one time its OK to paint one on: For a night out. This is when you could use an antifungal polish product, says Dr. Andersen. They provide a better environment than general nail polish, but dont use them for treatment and remove as soon as you get home. For special events, try Dr.s Remedy polish.
Can You Wear Nail Polish While Treating Toenail Fungus
If you apply non-medicated nail polish over a toenail fungus treatment, its likely that the fungal infection will worsen. Cheap over-the-counter polishes always appeal to the pocket, but being overly frugal is likely to damage your foot and nail health in the long term.
Dont apply an antifungal toenail polish . However, you can apply a coat of medicated polish once your toenails have been treated. Just allow time for the cream to be fully absorbed. That way, you can have great-looking feet while you heal toenail fungus.
When you return from work or a social occasion, remove the polish as soon as possible. Give your toenails time to breathe during the evenings and weekends. This will help to speed up your recovery.
Dr.s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish
When it comes to painting your nails when you have toenail fungus, Dr.s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish will give you a look you want with the treatment that you need.
Infused with essential oils, or oils that are known to have healing properties including antifungal, this is a good two-in-one treatment. It contains Vitamins C and E, which are both essential for skin and nail health. It also includes tea tree oil, which has been used for centuries to heal many health ailments. This oil is potent, so it is best when mixed with other ingredients.
DaniPro AntiFungal Infused Nail Polish
NuWave Antifungal Nail Polish
Weve also identified some ways to get pretty toenails without polish. Find out more about the bare nail trend.
Save
Also Check: Is Sunlight Good For Toenail Fungus
Locker Rooms And Toenail Fungus
If you’re a swimmer, you needn’t worry about a chlorinated pool increasing your risk of toenail fungus, but the locker room is another story. Wet, humid areas are prime for breeding for toenail fungal infections. “Swimmers should always wear foot gear in the locker rooms and showers,” Zinkin says. Also, dry your feet thoroughly after swimming and showering and before slipping back into your regular shoes.
What If I Have Black Spots On My Toenails
Many people think that black spots are related to toenail fungus, but Dr. Wagenseller says, Black spots on the toenails are most likely due to trauma, especially if there is a purple hue to them. Try to remember if youve stubbed your toe, dropped something on your foot, or otherwise injured the area around the nail. If you cant seem to remember an injury or you notice these black spots appearing regularly, this may be a warning sign of a more serious condition. According to Dr. Wagenseller, If a black spot on the toenails involves the adjacent cuticle, it should be evaluated by a dermatologist. This can be a warning sign of melanoma in some, but not all, cases.
Recommended Reading: How Does Nail Fungus Treatment Work
Signs And Symptoms Of Foot Fungus
Itchy skin is an early sign of foot fungus, or scaly, peeling skin, or tiny blisters on the skin that will pop at times, says Sundling. The skin tends to break out in the shape of a moccasin, or the area of the foot that a moccasin would cover. You dont see foot fungus on the top of the foot very often. Its common to get a fungal infection between the toes as well, she adds.
Why Are My Toenails Yellow
Feb 26, 2018 | Conditions, Foot Care
Ugh! You hate looking at your toenails they are yellow and ugly! Yellow toenails can be the result of various conditions, personal habits, or diseases. The discoloration can affect one toe, a couple of toes, or all of them. The amount of yellowness can also vary. You should realize that the condition of your toenails can be an indication of your bodys overall health. So, just because your discolored toenails are usually covered by your socks and shoes is no reason to forget about them. Here are some causes of yellow toenails.
Don’t Miss: How To Treat Nail Fungus At Home
What Medication Kills Toenail Fungus
In addition to efinaconazole , tavaborole and ciclopirox are effective. It may take as long as a year for noticeable improvements to appear, since all require daily applications. Because they kill fungi on the surface of the nail, these products may be useful for early, superficial fungal infections.
Myth : Fungal Nail Will Go Away By Itself
“Fungal nails are not likely to clear without any intervention. There are several options but first be sure it is a fungal infection see a podiatrist and they can advise you further. Once the nail infection has been established home remedies as well as over the counter treatment options are favoured in conjunction with regular visits to the podiatrist for maintenance.”
Recommended Reading: How Do I Use Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fungus
On My First Visit Dr Patel Diagnosed The Problem As Plantar Fasciitis And Began Treatment
I was dealing with nearly unbearable pain in my left foot. I was barely able to get through each day. I was sure my neuropathy was the problem. I went to a local podiatrist who told me the only problem I had was the neuropathy in my feet and I needed to see a neurologist. After conferring with my family doctor he referred me to Dr. Sanjay Patel.
On my first visit, Dr. Patel diagnosed the problem as Plantar Fasciitis and began treatment. After following Dr. Patels advice I no longer have pain in my left foot.