What causes toenail fungus. How to identify toenail fungus symptoms. What are the best home remedies for toenail fungus. How to prevent toenail fungus infections. When to seek medical treatment for toenail fungus. What are the potential complications of untreated toenail fungus. How to maintain proper foot hygiene to avoid fungal infections.

Understanding Toenail Fungus: An Overview

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects a significant portion of the population. This fungal infection can cause various changes in the appearance and texture of toenails, with thickening being one of the most notable symptoms. As the infection progresses, it can lead to discomfort and even pain, making early detection and treatment crucial.

The prevalence of onychomycosis ranges from 1% to 8% of the general population, with its occurrence on the rise. This increase highlights the importance of understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for this persistent condition.

Identifying the Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

Recognizing the signs of toenail fungus is essential for prompt treatment. While thickening of the toenail is a primary indicator, several other symptoms may manifest:

• Discoloration (yellow, brown, or green tints)
• Foul odor emanating from the affected toenail
• Separation of the nail from the nail bed
• Brittle or crumbly nail texture
• Scaly or chalky appearance
• Accumulation of debris under the nail

In the early stages of infection, discomfort may be minimal or nonexistent. However, as the condition progresses, pain can become a significant issue, affecting daily activities and quality of life.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus occurs when fungi or yeast enter the nail through various points of entry, such as the junction between the nail and nail bed, cracks in the nail, or cuts in the surrounding skin. The warm, moist environment under the nail provides ideal conditions for fungal growth.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing toenail fungus:

• Frequent exposure to wet environments (e.g., swimming pools, public showers)
• Prolonged moisture exposure
• Tight-fitting shoes that restrict airflow
• Excessive foot sweating
• Previous toenail injuries
• Spread of athlete’s foot to the toenails
• Weakened immune system due to medications or medical conditions
• Genetic predisposition
• Smoking

Certain medical conditions can also increase susceptibility to toenail fungus, including:

• Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes
• Circulatory disorders
• Psoriasis

Cancer treatments may also elevate the risk of developing nail fungus, making it crucial for individuals undergoing such treatments to monitor their nail health closely.

Effective Home Treatments for Toenail Fungus

While severe cases of toenail fungus may require professional medical intervention, many mild to moderate infections can be addressed with home remedies. Here are some effective treatments you can try:

1. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil possesses powerful antifungal properties. Apply a few drops of pure tea tree oil to the affected nail twice daily using a cotton swab. For sensitive skin, dilute the oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil.

2. Vinegar Foot Soak

Create a foot soak by mixing equal parts water and vinegar (white or apple cider). Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes daily. The acidic nature of vinegar helps inhibit fungal growth.

3. Oregano Oil

Oregano oil contains thymol, which has antifungal properties. Mix a few drops of oregano oil with a carrier oil and apply to the affected nail twice daily.

4. Garlic

Crush a clove of garlic and mix it with a carrier oil. Apply this mixture to the affected nail and cover with a bandage. Leave overnight and rinse in the morning. Repeat daily.

5. Baking Soda Paste

Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply this paste to the affected nail and surrounding skin. Leave for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. Baking soda helps create an inhospitable environment for fungal growth.

Preventing Toenail Fungus: Essential Tips

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to toenail fungus. Incorporate these habits into your daily routine to minimize the risk of infection:

1. Maintain proper foot hygiene by washing your feet with soap and water regularly.
2. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, after washing or swimming.
3. Wear moisture-wicking socks and change them frequently if your feet tend to sweat.
4. Choose breathable footwear that doesn’t constrict your toes.
5. Use antifungal foot powder to keep your feet dry.
6. Wear flip-flops or shower shoes in public areas like locker rooms and swimming pools.
7. Trim your toenails regularly, using disinfected tools.
8. Avoid sharing nail grooming tools with others.
9. Replace old footwear, especially if you’ve recently recovered from a fungal infection.

When to Seek Professional Medical Treatment

While home remedies can be effective for mild cases of toenail fungus, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if:

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite consistent home treatment
• You experience significant pain or discomfort
• You have a preexisting medical condition that may complicate the infection
• The infection spreads to other nails or areas of the foot
• You notice signs of a secondary bacterial infection, such as redness, swelling, or warmth around the nail

A healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include prescription antifungal medications or topical treatments.

Potential Complications of Untreated Toenail Fungus

Neglecting to treat toenail fungus can lead to various complications over time. As the infection progresses, you may experience:

• Increased pain and discomfort when wearing shoes or walking
• Difficulty performing daily activities due to nail pain
• Spread of the infection to other nails or areas of the body
• Secondary bacterial infections
• Permanent nail damage or deformity

For individuals with preexisting medical conditions, particularly those affecting the immune system or circulation, untreated toenail fungus can pose more serious risks. In such cases, prompt treatment is crucial to prevent potential complications.

Maintaining Proper Foot Hygiene for Long-Term Prevention

Establishing a consistent foot care routine is essential for preventing future fungal infections and maintaining overall foot health. Consider incorporating these practices into your daily regimen:

1. Daily Foot Inspection

Take a few moments each day to examine your feet and toenails for any changes in appearance or texture. Early detection of potential issues can lead to more effective treatment.

2. Proper Nail Trimming

Trim your toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges that can lead to ingrown nails. Use clean, sanitized tools for each trimming session.

3. Moisturize Regularly

Keep your feet moisturized to prevent dry, cracked skin that can serve as an entry point for fungi. Avoid applying moisturizer between the toes, as this area should remain dry.

4. Rotate Your Footwear

Alternate between different pairs of shoes to allow each pair to dry thoroughly between uses. This practice helps reduce moisture buildup and inhibit fungal growth.

5. Use Antifungal Products Preventatively

Consider using antifungal sprays or powders in your shoes and on your feet regularly, especially if you’re prone to fungal infections or frequently engage in activities that expose your feet to moisture.

By implementing these preventive measures and maintaining awareness of the signs and symptoms of toenail fungus, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection and promote overall foot health. Remember, early detection and prompt treatment are key to managing toenail fungus effectively and preventing potential complications.

Pictures, Causes, and Home Treatments

Toenail fungus can cause a thickening of the toenail, as well as other changes in appearance. This can lead to pain and discomfort, and should be treated promptly to prevent further issues.

Changes in your toenails may be a symptom of an underlying condition. Toenails that grow thicker over time likely indicate a fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis.

Left untreated, thick toenails can become painful. Prompt treatment can be key to curing the nail fungus. Fungal infections might be difficult to cure and may require months of treatment.

A change in the thickness of your toenails may be just one symptom of a fungal infection.

Other symptoms of nail fungus include:

• toenails that change in color to yellow, brown, or green
• a foul odor that comes from the toenail
• toenails that can lift up from the nail bed
• toenails that split or crumble
• toenails that look scaly or chalky
• toenails with dirt and other debris under them

You may notice no discomfort in the early stages of the infection. As symptoms build, your toenails may become painful.

Around 1 percent to 8 percent of the population has a diagnosis of onychomycosis, and its occurrence grows. This condition happens when a fungus or yeast enters your toenail:

• where your toenail and nail bed meet
• in a crack in your toenail
• in a cut in your skin that touches your toenail

The fungus or yeast grows under the nail bed, where it’s moist. The infection is initially minor, but with time may spread and cause your toenail to grow thicker, which can lead to other symptoms.

Your toes can often be susceptible to fungal infections because of exposure to wet areas. Moisture helps fungus spread.

You might be likely to get toenail fungus from:

• being barefoot in public places with wet floors, such as swimming pools, showers, and gyms
• frequent or prolonged exposure to water
• shoes that constrict your feet
• sweaty feet and shoes
• damage to a toenail
• athlete’s foot that spreads to your toenails
• medications that suppress your immune system
• genetics
• smoking

You might also be likely to get toenail fungus if you have a preexisting medical condition, such as:

• type 1 diabetes
• type 2 diabetes
• circulatory conditions
• psoriasis

Cancer treatments may increase the likelihood of developing nail fungus. If you have a preexisting condition and develop fungus, it’s very important to treat it as soon as possible.

Call a doctor if you notice a change in the appearance of your nails. Treating a fungal infection in its early stages may help prevent the condition from worsening.

Your doctor will typically look at your nails to diagnose the condition. The doctor may also take a swab underneath the nail or take a toenail clipping to diagnose the condition.

Untreated toenail infections can cause some complications. Over time, the infection can get worse, and symptoms may become more severe. Toenails might thicken to the point that they cause discomfort when you try to wear shoes, or even make it more difficult to walk.

If you have preexisting medical conditions, treatment can be vital so that the fungus doesn’t contribute to secondary infections or complications.

You can reduce the risk of thick toenails or the recurrence of toenail fungus in several ways:

• Keep your feet clean by washing them with soap and water regularly. Dry them off with a towel afterward.
• Keep your feet as dry as possible: Change your socks a few times a day, wear cotton socks that remove moisture from your feet, rotate your shoes so they can dry out, and purchase shoes that breathe and don’t constrict your feet.
• Try a foot powder that keeps your feet dry.
• Wear flip-flops or other shower shoes when you are in locker rooms or at the pool.
• Groom your feet properly.
• Make sure to use disinfected tools when trimming your nails.
• Purchase new footwear if your nail fungus has recently been cured.

Toenails that grow thicker over time may indicate a fungal infection. The good news is that if an infection is diagnosed, prompt treatment can help cure it.

Additionally, there are simple ways to help lower your risk of toenail fungal infection, including wearing sandals or shoes in locker rooms, keeping your feet as dry as possible during the day, and practicing good foot hygiene.

Black Toenail: Causes, Treatments, and More

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Toenails can turn black from nutritional deficiencies, infection, or trauma. This may go away on its own. If not, see your doctor to rule out a more serious cause.

Read on to learn about the causes of black toenails and the possible treatments.

A black toenail may be caused by:

• An underlying medical condition: This may include anemia, diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease.
• Fungal infections: While these often look white or yellow, fungal infections can sometimes cause black toenails from debris buildup. Your toenails are especially vulnerable to fungal infections because they thrive on moist and warm environments.
• Melanoma: This is the most serious type of skin cancer, which often appears as a dark brown misshapen spot. Such spots can also occur underneath nail beds.
• Trauma: Usually caused by an injury, trauma to the toenail can cause the blood vessels beneath a nail to break. The resulting bleeding underneath the nail appears black.

A black toenail doesn’t necessarily require a doctor’s visit — the need for medical treatment depends on the initial cause. Knowing the cause can help you make this decision. On the flipside, if you don’t know the cause, it’s a good idea to see your doctor just in case your black toenail is a sign of a serious medical condition.

Not all cases of toenail fungus require a doctor’s visit. However, if you also have diabetes, you should see your doctor for treatment.

A dermatologist can also help diagnose and treat black toenail. You’ll need to see a dermatologist if you suspect melanoma. However, if your black toenail is caused by another underlying health issue, such as diabetes, then you’ll also need to see your primary doctor to treat the cause.

Any black toenail that doesn’t go away should be looked at by a doctor. If you’re concerned about your black toenail and don’t already have a dermatologist, you can view doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

Toenail fungus that’s left untreated can spread throughout your feet and other parts of your body. It can also cause permanent nail damage.

Complications can also arise from melanoma in the toenail that’s mistaken for trauma-induced black toenail. It’s important to see your doctor if you notice any black spots that might be spreading throughout the nail, or if they don’t go away despite your toenail growing out.

Fungal infections of the toes are relatively treatable at home when caught early. Over-the-counter ointments, creams, and polishes are usually effective. Severe cases may require a prescription antifungal treatment.

If a black toenail is caused by an injury, the resulting spot from broken blood vessels will disappear once your nail grows out.

Black toenail caused by trauma from an injury usually resolves on its own without treatment. However, if your toenail grows out and it still appears black, then the symptoms might be related to another underlying cause.

Toenail discoloration related to diabetes and other health conditions requires treatment for the underlying causes.

A:

Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

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With black toenail, your outlook largely depends on the root cause of the symptom. Cases related to trauma and fungal infection have the best outlook. In these instances, injured nails grow out, and fungal infections may be treated at home.

Black toenail caused by melanoma and other health conditions are symptomatic. The outlook for such cases depends on how early you treat the underlying cause.

Keeping your nails clean and dry can help prevent some causes of black toenail. You can also take care to help prevent toenail trauma. This involves wearing closed-toe shoes when working so that your nails don’t get injured from dropped objects. Wearing proper-fitting shoes during exercise (especially running) can also help prevent toenail trauma.

When it comes to other underlying causes, you need to take other preventive measures. Reducing direct sun exposure to your feet and wearing sunscreen around your toes can help prevent melanoma. Black toenail attributed to other medical issues can be prevented through proper treatment and management of the underlying health condition.

Nail fungus (onychomycosis) – EMC

The type of pathogen affects the course of the disease and, accordingly, its treatment, which can only be selected by a dermatologist. Self-therapy with advertised means can be not only ineffective, but also dangerous to health.

Nail fungus symptoms

• deformity and thickening of nails
• nail thinning and softening
• discoloration of nails to yellow, white, black, gray, brown (depending on the type of fungus)
• nail plate separation
• deformation of the nail plate: pits, furrows, waves
• nail deformity: the nail may become concave like a spoon, or it may become like a beak

It is important to understand that a doctor cannot determine the type of fungus by appearance alone – additional examinations are needed in the form of scrapings from the nail plate or nail bed.

Causes of infection with nail fungus

• household infection (contact with an already infected person or his things: shoes, clothes, bathroom accessories; swimming pool, sauna, bathhouse, gym)
• micro lesions on the skin
• endocrine diseases (obesity, diabetes, hypothyroidism)
• antibiotic therapy
• vascular diseases (lymphostasis, venous insufficiency)
• violation of immunity

A common problem with nail fungus is that patients do not seek treatment from a dermatologist for a long time. The disease begins to progress, and its treatment becomes even longer and more difficult.

Nail fungus can be treated

• with topical preparations
• systemically (topical therapy in combination with antifungal drugs)

Local treatment of nail fungus is possible only in the early stages of the disease and with small areas of damage. That is why it is important to visit a dermatologist on time.

Complications of nail fungus

• allergy
• bronchial asthma
• diabetic foot
• gangrene

The sooner a person suffering from onycomychosis turns to a dermatologist, the faster and with less effort he will get rid of an unpleasant disease, and the nail plate will recover.

You can sign up for a consultation with a dermatologist in Yekaterinburg by phone: +7 (343) 379-07-70 or through the clinic’s website

Attention! This survey is the minimum. An individual examination plan will be drawn up after consultation with a specialist.

There are contraindications. Read the instructions or consult a specialist.

determination of how infection occurs, preparations.

Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is a well-known disease that is caused by damage to the structure of the stratum corneum of the nail by pathogenic dermatophyte fungi and microspores. There are three types of onychomycosis.

• Normotrophic – does not change the structure of the nail. Only the color of the nail changes, visible spots, blotches, stripes may appear. At the same time, the gloss and thickness of the nail remain normal.

• Hypertrophic – the condition of the nail is complicated by thickening and deformation. The surface tarnishes and changes color to yellow or brown.

• Onycholytic – the structure of the nail atrophies, the horny plate is torn away from the root bed.

How infection occurs

The main cause of infection is caused by fungal pathogens on the feet in public places – swimming pools, baths, showers, etc. The risk of infection is also inevitable through the sharing of hygiene items and shoes. The risk of infection in some cases arises due to hyperhidrosis of the legs in uncomfortable or poor-quality shoes. Poor personal hygiene can also contribute to the development of fungal nail infections. Along with this, other causes of the development of a fungal disease are also known. Among the risk of infection are diabetic patients who are prone to obesity, people with reduced immunity, as well as HIV-infected people.
The first symptoms of the appearance of the fungus can be difficult to notice and recognize at the beginning of the infection. In the process of the development of the disease, seals and calluses form on the feet and between the toes, the skin in the places where the fungus is localized can itch and peel off. Perhaps the formation of bubbles on the skin, which burst over time, which causes peeling of the epidermis. There is a deformation and compaction of the nail plate, which can later delaminate and begin to crumble.

Treatment of infection

To verify the reality of infection with a fungal infection, you should contact a dermatologist, who, based on the tests, will establish the necessary correct course of treatment. Along with this, you can conduct an independent diagnosis for the presence of a fungus. To do this, it is recommended to hold the nails in a weak solution of potassium permanganate. Healthy areas turn brown, the affected parts will be transparent.
Currently, nail fungus is successfully treatable with effective antifungal drugs. The pharmacy may offer medicines that can be purchased without a prescription, but only a dermatologist can prescribe a comprehensive treatment.
Ointments, creams and solutions are used against the fungus.