Experiencing Nail Fungus In Its Early Stages
Fungal nail infections are becoming a common nail problem, especially if you frequent public bathrooms, gym, saunas, or spas. People often dismiss nail fungus because it generally does not give any discomfort and the first signs are often hard to detect. Brown or black spots and white streaks may signify an infection in your nail. It may later on progress to more evident changes wherein the nail thickens or have a rougher surface. Although not bothersome, leaving a fungal nail infection untreated can make it harder and more frustrating to cure in the end.Total dystrophic onychomycosis, or severe nail fungal infections, is the end-stage of this nail disease. Fungus has started to infect larger portions of the nail causing it to become deformed, brittle, and weak. More often than not, it starts to become painful and even emit some type of foul odor. There is increased possibility for permanent damage to the nail. The infection may also spread to other parts of your body and create more serious illnesses.
Variables Supporting To Toe Fungi
A number of fungal organisms cause fungal nail problems.
Dermatophytes are one of one of the most usual causes. The growth of yeast as well as mold can additionally contribute to toenail complications.
In spite of its frequency among older adults, fungal nail infection can influence individuals of any kind of age. A weak nail can become completely dry and also fragile as it ages.
Fungi can get involved in the nails with these splits. The feet may suffer from decreased blood flow, along with a weak body immune system.
Treatments Suggested By A Physician Symptoms Toe Fungus
A variety of effective items are offered, such as efinaconazole , tavaborole , and also ciclopirox .
A few of these require day-to-day application, and also it can take a year for recognizable developments to occur.
Sometimes, these items can soothe very early fungal infections by exterminating fungi externally of the nails. If you file down the nail or the nail bed, they can penetrate deeper right into the nail or the nail bed. Studies reveal that their remedy rate averages around 35%.
Also Check: How You Get Toenail Fungus
How Doctors Diagnose Toenail Fungus
Your doctor will first examine your toenails, but physical exam alone may be unreliable when it comes to diagnosing toenail fungus.
Some conditions, such as psoriasis, hematoma , and paronychia , can mimic the symptoms of a fungal nail infection.
Because there are numerous conditions that can deform nails, even doctors may have a difficult time.
Therefore, your doctor may take a nail sample by scraping debris under your toenail, clipping or drilling a hole in the nail and send it for laboratory testing.
This will identify the type of fungus present in the area and knowing the exact cause will help in determining the best treatment .
Prevention Black Toenail Fungus
The following habits can help prevent nail fungus or reinfections, as well as athletes foot, which can cause nail fungus:
- Wash your hands and feet regularly. Hands wash compulsory after touching a diseased nail. Moisten your nails after washing.
- Cut your nails straight, smooth the edges with a file, and file thick areas. Disinfect the nail pliers after each use.
- Wear sweat-wicking socks or change them during the day.
- Choose shoes made with materials that allow the skin to breathe.
- Dispose of old shoes or treat them with sanitizers or antifungal powders.
- Wear footwear in the pool areas and changing rooms.
- Choose a nail salon that uses sterile manicure tools for each client.
- Try not to utilize nail clean or polish nails.
You May Like: Can You Get Toenail Fungus From Pedicure
Toenail Fungus Treatment: 3 Steps To Get Rid Of Toenail Fungus Fast
Fungal infections that appear on the skin are one of the most common infections in humans. Many people are curious about natural toenail fungus treatment, as this is an issue that many folks struggle with. Few are aware that toenail fungus symptoms can actually be a sign of candida virus or yeast within your system.
Onychomycosis or tinea unguium is the name for the type of infection that causes the fungi to appear on the nails. This is caused by underlying fungal growth from dermatophytes, non-dermatophyte molds and yeasts .
With dietary changes, supplements and certain essential oils, you can treat and eliminate the root cause of the toenail fungus, even when youve been struggling with it for years. I will take you through the exact steps of how to get rid of toenail fungus fast and for good.
I can tell you my own mother struggled with toenail fungus on her big toe for over 10 years, and the reason why she originally got it and then continued to struggle with this fungus was the chemotherapy she went through when diagnosed with breast cancer years ago. After going through chemo, she had systemic yeast and candida issues and then developed the toenail fungus. The exact treatment I detail below is what we used with her to successfully erase her fungus.
About Fungal Nail Infection
Many people develop a fungal nail infection at some point in their life. It’s not usually serious, but can be unpleasant and difficult to treat.
The infection develops slowly and causes the nail to become discoloured, thickened and distorted.
Toenails are more frequently affected than the fingernails.
The medical name for a fungal nail infection is onychomycosis.
Recommended Reading: How To Cure Fungus On Big Toe
How To Diagnose Toenail Fungus
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Several changes in toenails or fingernails may cause people to come to the conclusion that they have developed a fungal nail infection, medically known as tinea unguium or onychomycosis.
This infection commonly starts at the edge of the nail and spreads to the middle, making it brownish or yellowish, brittle and thick.
In severe cases, the nail may also lift off from the nail bed.
People who frequently go to swimming pools, saunas, and communal showers are more susceptible to toenail fungus.
Most people who are infected do not detect it right away until the condition becomes severe. Fungal nail infection is not considered to be a serious health problem unless another medical issue is present.
But, how do you know if you have toenail fungus?
Toenail Fungus Treatment Spokane Wa Nail Fungus Jubilia
Any Downside To Removing A Toe Nail That Has Fungus Lavender Oil Toenail Fungus Symptoms Toenail Fungus. Apple Cider Vinegar Or Porocide For Skin Fungus Skin Fungus On Belly. Can Nail Fungus Contaminate Food Why Does Bleach Turn My Nail Fungus Yellow. Sure Fire Way To Get Rid Of Toenail Fungus Vinegar Lemons And Peroxide For Nail Fungus.
What Does Toenail Fungus Do Bleach Solution For Nail Fungus. Fighting Nail Fungus For Years And Nothing Curing Natural Home Remedy For Foot Fungus Body Ecology Toenail Fungus. Ppictures Of Toe Fungus Healing Is Toenail Fungus Permenant.
Recommended Reading: How To Treat Fingernail Fungus With Vinegar
Home Remedies For Toenail Fungus
Generally, natural treatments or home remedies are more effective than prescription medications when used to treat mild-to-moderate toenail fungus. Although they typically do not cause many side effects, they usually take longer to eliminate toenail fungus as compared to medical treatments and prescriptions.
However, natural home remedies should not be used if you have underlying conditions such as diabetes or weakened immune system. Instead, seek medical attention to address the underlying health problems as well as the toenail fungus.
Special Groups At Risk For Complications In Severe Onychomycosis
Delaying the treatment of a nail fungus until its late stages can be excruciatingly challenging. For some people with other diseases/conditions, avoiding the onset of severe onychomycosis is essential. The dangers that involve the end-stage nail disease can lead to an even more harmful situation for them.
You May Like: How Can You Get Toenail Fungus
When Should You See A Doctor
It’s tempting to dismiss toenail fungus as an unsightly but mainly harmless problem. Like so many other health issues, though, ignoring it will only make things worse down the line.
“You should see a podiatrist when you notice the problem and treat it early,” advises Dr. Spielfogel. “If left untreated, which is very common, the infection will spread to the rest of the nail and eventually spread to the other nails.”
Once you make an appointment, your podiatrist will give your feet a thorough examination and will probably take a biopsy, or sample, of your nail to be sent away for testing. This will help your doctor confirm that you have an infection and not some other issue, as well as figure out exactly what type of infection you have, Dr. Spielfogel explains.
From there, your doctor can work with you on a treatment plan to get rid of your toenail fungus for good.
To get our top stories delivered to your inbox, sign up for the Healthy Living newsletter
Maintain A Healthy And Balanced Foot And Foot Routine
Consult your medical professional if you observe a change in nail shade or texture. A fungus in its early stages could be your opportunity to spot it.
Talk with your medical professional or pharmacist if you think you have a problem or fungus, like athletes foot.
The fungi can additionally infect your toenails if it is not dealt with.
Don’t Miss: How To Kill Nail Fungus Quickly
When To See A Doctor Over Toenail Fungus
The cause of your toenail fungal infection might be an underlying health problem. In some cases, it might just be too severe and hence difficult to get rid of it at home, although there are no underlying problems.
You may want to see a doctor over toenail fungus for further examination, advice, diagnosis, and treatment. After all, there are many other health problems that may cause signs and symptoms similar to those of toenail fungus. Therefore, see your doctor in case the following happens:
Toe Infection Home Treatment
For an ingrown toenail, try soaking your foot in warm, soapy water or apple cider vinegar.
You can treat athletes foot with antifungal sprays or creams available at your pharmacy. You can also check with a pharmacist about getting special padded socks that reduce the amount of moisture on your feet.
Toenail fungus can be treated with a variety of home remedies, including over-the-counter ointments and natural oils.
Read Also: How To Rid Toenail Fungus
How To Treat Nail Fungus And Why You Always Should
Aside from the pain and discomfort, its crucial to treat nail fungus because it can spread and cause permanent damage to your toenail beds. Plus, it is more difficult to treat when it advances, and it does not just go away on its own.
For those with diabetes or a weakened immune system, nail fungus can increase the risk of an infection of the surrounding skin.
Treatments include medicated nail polish, topical antifungal creams, and oral medications. At Town Center Foot & Ankle, podiatrist Dr. Stephen G. Eichelsdorfer offers an effective high tech treatment to get rid of toenail fungus and prevent it from returning. He uses PinPointe FootLaser system to destroy the fungus on the affected toe as well as the surrounding toes.
This method enables Dr. Eichelsdorfer to destroy fungus that is present on neighboring toes but has not caused symptoms yet. This way you destroy all the nail fungus at once to prevent a recurrence. Recurrences are fairly common.
For more information on how to prevent, diagnose, and treat toenail fungus, call Town Center Foot & Ankle with offices in Kingwood and Atascocita, Texas, or make an appointment online.
You Might Also Enjoy…
- 4.81/5
How Can I Prevent Toenail Fungus
Theres no way to guarantee that you wont get toenail fungus. But you can take several steps to help prevent it:
- Avoid going barefoot in communal areas such as hotel rooms / showers, public showers, locker rooms and swimming pools. Most people pick up fungus in these situations. It helps to wear flip flops in these public areas.
- If you have a family member with foot fungus or nail fungus, try to use different shower or wear flip flops in the shower to avoid coming in contact with it.
- Trauma due to accidental or aggressive clipping of the nails can turn into portals of entry for the fungus.
- Clean your nail trimmer before using it.
- Do not tear or rip your toenails on purpose.
- If you have diabetes, follow all foot care recommendations from your healthcare provider.
- Keep your feet dry. Make sure to fully dry your feet after a shower.
- Soak toenails in warm water before cutting them. Or you can cut your nails after a shower or bath.
- Trim toenails straight across .
- Wear shoes that fit correctly. They should not be too loose or tight around the toes.
Recommended Reading: What Can Get Rid Of Foot Fungus
How Do You Get A Fungal Nail Infection
Most fungal nail infections occur as a result of the fungi that cause athlete’s foot infecting the nails.
These fungi often live harmlessly on your skin, but they can sometimes multiply and lead to infections. The fungi prefer warm, dark and moist places like the feet.
You’re more likely to get a fungal nail infection if you:
- don’t keep your feet clean and dry
- wear shoes that cause your feet to get hot and sweaty
- walk around barefoot in places where fungal infections can spread easily, such as communal showers, locker rooms and gyms
- have damaged your nails
- have a weakened immune system
- have certain other health conditions, such as diabetes, psoriasis or peripheral arterial disease
Fungal nail infections can be spread to other people, so you should take steps to avoid this if you have an infection.
How Toenail Fungus Occurs
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an infection that develops when microorganisms grow under the surface of your nail. It typically occurs after your toenail has had contact with a dermatophyte fungus, though it can also be related to molds or yeasts.
Anyone can have toenail fungus, but its more common in older adults. The condition affects about 75% of people over age 60. With age, your nails become more brittle and cracks develop on the surface. These cracks are the perfect entry points for fungi.
Don’t Miss: Can Toenail Fungus Spread To Skin
Risk Factors Of Having An Athletes Foot Fungus Include Having A Weakened Immune System
Having HIV or AIDS makes you much more vulnerable to this condition because AIDS takes a lot out of your immune system. Other risk factors include diabetes, overuse of antibiotics, and poor nutritional habits. Poor nutritional habits include
- Consuming fatty and oily foods
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Not getting enough fiber
- Not getting enough nutrients like vitamin D
Another risk factor is the wearing of tight-fitting shoes. Tight shoes make it easy for moisture to spread, which allows for the fungus to spread and become active.
Prevention is better than cure, as the saying goes
Although the fungus cannot actually be avoided, it can certainly be prevented by wearing the proper footwear and socks on your feet and protecting them from conditions that allow for their entry.
In communal areas such as public pools, locker rooms, showers, spas, and showers, always wear flip-flops or sandals to prevent getting the fungus on your feet from the wet floor.
If you do end up getting athletes foot, there are anti-fungal powders available that can be used topically, and oral medications that you can take orally once you get home.
If you are an athlete, make sure you change your socks often and always wear socks that are designed to absorb moisture and contain the feet from fungi and bacteria. Some types of socks are specifically designed to reduce the activity on the feet, which may help to limit the spread of an athletes foot.
How Are Fungal Nail Infections Treated
Treatment isnt always necessarydepending on the severity of your conditionbut it is recommended simply because it might be contagious. Not only can you spread the condition to someone else, but depending on the type of fungus, can also spread to infect your other toes.
For mild cases of toenail fungus, your doctor will likely start with conservative treatments. These may include prescription anti-fungal oral medications or topical solutions. For patients who exhibit severe symptomsor for those who do not respond to medicationthe doctor may recommend nail avulsion surgery. During this procedure, the nail plate is removed and chemical treatments are introduced to treat the infection.Contact your podiatrist for more information or to schedule a consultation.
Also Check: How To Get Rid Of Fungus In Your Grass