Our bodies go through normal wear and tear as we go through our lives. Unfortunately, sometimes the cuts that we don’t even notice can lead to deeper medical issues if they are infected, especially on our feet. Fungal nail infections are usually caused by fungi called dermatophytes that infect the skin beneath the nail; yeast is another common culprit. Toenails are especially vulnerable to infection when your bare feet contact damp surfaces such as showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms. If you are experiencing toenail fungus, our experienced podiatrists can provide you with a solution.
Causes of Toenail Fungus
Fungal nail infections are usually caused by fungi called dermatophytes that infect the skin beneath the nail. Yeast is another common culprit that can amplify the infection. Toenails are especially vulnerable to infection when your bare feet contact damp surfaces such as showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms. If you have an athlete’s foot, the infection can spread to the nails as well.
Signs of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is an infection below your nail. It usually starts as a single small area around the tip of your nail, but it soon spreads into the deeper layers of your skin. This infection causes nail damage, and if left untreated it can spread quickly. The symptoms of toenail fungus include white or yellow spots, thickened nails, ragged toenail edges, and a foul odor.
Treatment Options
Fungus treatment depends on your symptoms and their progression. Your podiatrist at Beyond Podiatry may prescribe topical creams, ointments, or oral antifungal medicine to fight the fungus. If the topical treatment does not resolve the infection, there is an option to remove the toenail surgically if the toenail doesn’t respond to nonsurgical treatments. If you have experienced toenail fungus in the past, there are practical tips for prevention, these include:
- Washing and completely drying your feet daily
- Powdering your feet after you wash and dry them daily
- Using an antifungal cream on your feet nightly
- Never wearing anyone else’s footwear
