What Causes Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus, also known as tinea unguium, is a fungal infection that most commonly affects the toenails. It is caused by an infection and can be more common in the toes than fingers due to factors such as diabetes, an immune deficiency condition, or a history of athlete’s foot. Toenail fungus thrives in dark, warm, and moist environments – like showers or sweaty shoes – where the body’s immune system is less effective at fighting it off. Treatment for toenail fungus usually involves antifungal medication prescribed by a dermatologist.
If You’ve Got Toenail Fungus, You’re Not Alone
What Is Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is caused by fungi which grows between the toenail and the nail bed. This occurs when moisture accumulates in and around the toes, creating an environment rich in nutrients for fungi to thrive. Other possible causes include an injury to the toe, changes in hormones during pregnancy or menopause, wearing shoes that are too tight or restrictive, poor hygiene habits, a weakened immune system due to health conditions such as HIV/AIDS of diabetes mellitus, or contact with someone who has a fungal infection.
Toenail fungus is an infection caused by fungi that can affect the toenails, fingernails, and skin. It is usually caused by a crack or cut in the toe which can spread to other parts of the body if not treated properly. A dermatologist will be able to advise on an appropriate treatment plan for eliminating nail infection and restoring healthy nails. This could involve antifungal medications either topically or orally, as well as proper foot care techniques such as keeping your feet dry and avoiding contact with damp surfaces. In some cases, surgery may also be needed to remove affected areas of nail tissue from affected toes. With proper treatment and care, it is possible to get rid of toenail fungus and grow healthy fungus-free nails again.
Contributing Factors
Toenail fungus can develop due to a variety of factors, such as wearing closed-toe shoes, getting pedicures with unsanitized tools, having a chronic illness, or being prone to injury. Additionally, it can be spread through contact with microscopic organisms. People who have chronic illnesses are more likely to be affected by fungal nails.
Treatment Challenges
Toenail fungus is difficult to treat because it is spread through contact with infected skin or nails, and the thickness of the nail can make it difficult for treatment to reach the fungus. In addition, nails can take up to a year to regrow, meaning that recurrence of infection is common. As a result, antifungal medication may not always be effective and removal of the nails may be necessary in some cases in order for successful treatment.
What are the signs and symptoms of toenail fungus?
The signs and symptoms of toenail fungus are important because they can be an indication of other underlying health problems. Typically, the first sign is a white or yellow spot under the nail that thickens and distorts it. As the infection progresses, other symptoms may also appear such as discoloration, thickening and distortion of the nail, pain or discomfort, brittle or crumbly nails, and skin infection. Toenail fungus can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated which is why it is important to act quickly when any signs of infection are present.
Nail Fungus Med Doctors Recommend
A dermatologist may suggest a combination of oral and topical medications to treat toenail fungus. Topical treatments such as antifungal oils, creams and ointments can also be used to target the fungus at its source. Additionally, there are topical products available that are designed specifically for treating toenail fungus and that are convenient and easy to use. One such product is EMUAIDMAX® First Aid Ointment for nail fungus.
What Preventative Measures Can Be Taken To Avoid Further Fungal Infections In The Future?
To avoid getting toenail fungus, it is important to keep hands and feet clean and dry, wear well-fitting shoes, clip nails short, avoid sharing towels and socks, and treat athlete’s foot promptly. Utilizing proper sterilization techniques for nail salon equipment can help reduce the risk of fungal nail infections. In addition, people should keep their hands and feet clean and dry at all times. Furthermore, trimming nails short will allow for better air circulation around the toes. Finally, walking barefoot in public places should be avoided to prevent the transmission of fungi from one individual to another. Early treatment of athlete’s foot can also help reduce the chances of developing a fungal infection in the nails.
FAQs
What Are The Symptoms Of Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is a condition characterized by white or yellow spots appearing underneath the tips of nails, which can lead to thickening and distortion. As the infection progresses, the nail bed may separate from the nail plate and cause pain. In order to treat this condition effectively, a dermatologist can diagnose it through an examination of the affected area and recommend treatments such as topical antifungal medications or oral antifungal medications. Additionally, lifestyle changes like keeping feet dry and wearing breathable shoes may help reduce the risk of recurrence.
What Causes Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is caused by a type of mold called dermatophyte, which is spread through moist environments. Those with diabetes, an immune deficiency condition, or a history of athlete’s foot may be more susceptible to developing toenail fungus. The infection typically enters the skin through small openings or separations in the nail bed and can grow quickly if exposed to warm and moist conditions. To prevent getting toenail fungus, it is important to avoid damp, dark environments as well as reducing blood circulation in the toes. People are more likely to get toe fungus over finger due its weakened immune system responses.
How Can Toenail Fungus Be Prevented?
To prevent toenail fungus, it is important to avoid barefooting in communal areas, clean nail trimmers before using them and trim nails straight across, follow all foot care recommendations from healthcare providers, dry feet properly after showers and avoid soaking toenails in water. Additionally, staying healthy and wearing non-occlusive or open shoes with absorbent socks can help keep feet dry and cold.
How Is Toenail Fungus Treated?
Toenail fungus can be treated with a variety of methods, including prescription-strength products or help from a board-certified dermatologist. Zinc undecylenate, terbinafine, and efinaconazole are some of the best ingredients to look for in topical treatments. It is important to find treatments that offer relief while hitting the fungus hard at its source. Early intervention is also essential for success in treating this condition. Those who suspect they have toenail fungus should contact a dermatologist as soon as possible since it can spread elsewhere on the body.
Do Fungal Nail Treatments Work?
The success rates of toenail fungus treatments vary, but generally itraconazole and terbinafine are effective. A three-month treatment with terbinafine can cure about 59 out of 100 people of toenail fungus. Other topical treatments like zinc undecylenate, efinaconazole, and terbinafine may also be effective in treating the infection. Toenail fungus treatments have a high success rate when used properly.
What Are The Side Effects Of Toenail Fungus Treatments?
The side effects of toenail fungus treatments can be serious. Common treatments used by dermatologists include oral antifungals, which can have adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Other OTC or home remedies for toenail fungus may also cause skin irritation or even infection if not done correctly. It’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before trying any treatment for toenail fungus in order to minimize the risk of side effects.
What Is The Cost Of Toenail Fungus Treatments?
Typically, toenail fungus treatments cost between $10 and $50 per bottle. To find the most effective treatment options, dermatologists usually recommend a combination of both oral and topical medications. It is important to choose products that target the fungus at its source for maximum effectiveness in treating the infection, as well as products that will keep other areas of the feet healthy. As toenail fungus can spread quickly, it is best to seek treatment from a board-certified dermatologist as soon as possible.
Are There Any Home Remedies For Toenail Fungus?
Home remedies are available to treat toenail fungus. Dr. Weil recommends using tea tree oil and grapefruit seed extract as natural antifungals. Over-the-counter oral antifungal drugs may be effective, but they can be expensive and risky, so topical treatments may be a better option. Vicks VapoRub is another potential home remedy, although it may not always work for everyone. Home remedies such as these can take longer than prescription medications to eliminate the infection but are usually milder and safer on the body overall. To ensure successful treatment of toenail fungus, individuals should also consider factors such as nail penetrability, severity of infection, and overall health before starting any treatment plan or home remedy regimen. If home remedies don’t work or cause side effects, consult with a doctor about other options for treating the condition.
Can Toenail Fungus Be Cured?
Yes, toenail fungus can be cured, but it can be difficult to treat. Tea tree oil and grapefruit seed extract are two of the most popular remedies for toenail fungus, but it may take a year for results to be seen. Oral antifungal drugs are more effective but also more expensive and have a small risk of toxicity. Camphor has antifungal properties, which may help Vicks VapoRub treat toenail fungus. It’s best not to wait until your nail fungus is severe before starting treatment. If you’re hoping to stick with OTC products, it’s best not to wait until your problem is severe. Toenail fungus can spread to other areas of the body, and may require a prescription-strength product or professional help.