Nail Fungus

What is nail fungus?

Also called onychomycosis, nail fungus is a common condition that causes your nails to become discolored, thickened, and crumble at the edge. Fungal infections can affect your fingernails, but this condition is more common in toenails.

Signs and symptoms of nail fungus include:

• White to yellowish-brown nails
• Thickened toenails
• Brittle, crumbly nail edges
• Debris buildup beneath the nail
• A foul smell
• Toe pain

Toenail fungus can spread from one toe to others and affect many toes at the same time. When a fungal infection affects the skin between your toes, it’s called athlete’s foot.

What causes nail fungus?

Various types of fungi can lead to a fungal nail infection. Fungi thrive in damp, warm, and dark places, like the inside of your shoes.

A fungal infection that begins as athlete’s foot may spread to the toenails on the same foot. But it’s rare for nail fungus to spread from one person to another.

When should I see a podiatrist for nail fungus?

There are many over-the-counter remedies for toenail fungus, but fungal nail infections can be difficult to treat. If your nail fungus persists despite attempts at treatment, the team at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey can help. They offer a variety of effective nail fungus treatments.

Having diabetes increases your risk of developing nail fungus complications, like a bacterial skin infection. If you have diabetes, you should call Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey at the first sign of nail fungus.  

How is nail fungus diagnosed and treated?

First, your podiatrist carefully examines your nails and reviews your symptoms and medical history. They may also take some nail clippings for lab testing.

Tell your doctor if you’ve already tried self-care methods or over-the-counter treatments for nail fungus. The treatment they recommend depends on the severity of your condition and specific type of fungus causing the infection.

Depending on your needs, nail fungus treatment may include:

• Prescription oral medications
• Prescription topical liquids or creams

Nail fungus can be hard to get rid of and may return even after treatment. Early intervention at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey is the best way to successfully treat nail fungus. Call or book an appointment online today.