educational write up on Nail fungus
It is one of the most common causes of thickened discolored nails.
More common in diabetics.
Toenail fungus( onychomycosis) is an infection underneath the surface of your nail caused by fungi.
When the microrganisms penetrate the nail often becomes darker in color and has a bad odor. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, white marks frequently appear on the nail plate, and the infection will readily spread to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails. If ignored, the infection will disrupt your work or even walk. The resulting thicker nails are difficult to trim and make walking painful when wearing shoes. Onychomycosis can also be accompanied by a secondary bacterial or yeast infection in or about the nail plate.
Causes of Nail fungus
The toenails are susceptible if you are walking barefoot in wet areas such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Injury to the nail bed, even slight pressure from shoes, may make it more susceptible to all types of infection, including fungal infection.
History of athlete’s foot and excessive sweating, chronic diseases such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails.
Symptoms of Nail fungus
Toenail fungus is often ignored because it’s painless. The disease is characterized by a progressive change in a toenail’s quality and color, which looks ugly.
How do I get treated?
You should visit your diabetic foot surgeon when you notice any discoloration, thickening, or deformity of your toenails. The earlier the visit better is the outcome for you.
Treatments may vary, depending on the nature and severity of the infection. Your podiatrist can detect a fungal infection early, perform a lab test, determine the cause, and form a suitable treatment plan specific for you.
Complications of Nail fungus
If untreated it will spread from one toe or finger to another and can result in athletes foot as well and lead to toe amputation if infection spreads widely.
Prevention of Nail fungus
- Proper hygiene and regular inspection of the feet and toes are the first lines of defense against fungal nails. Clean and dry feet avoid the disease.
- Wash your feet with soap and water, remember to dry thoroughly.
- Wear shower shoes when possible in public areas.
- Change shoes, socks frequently to avoid wetting .
- Clip toenails straight across so that the nail does not extend beyond the tip of the toe.
- Wear shoes that fit well and have breathable materials.
- Avoid wearing tight socks to decrease moisture.
- Disinfect your nail clippers.
- Don’t apply polish on discolored nails as they are suspected of infection.
- Any issues, discoloration of nails immediately consult your diabetic foot surgeon to avoid further complications.