Nail Fungus - Symptoms & Treatment

Nail fungus is a fungal infection that causes fingernails or toenails to thicken, discolor, disfigure, and split. If the problem is caused by a bacterium, the condition is called paronychia. The main concern is the nail discoloration (usually yellow) and change in nail texture and growth. Nails can become crumbly, break easily, and grow irregularly. However, because other nail conditions sometimes mimic fungal infection, most doctors will confirm the diagnosis by sending a nail clipping for laboratory evaluation especially if treatment is being considered. Fungal infections are not commonly contagious nor do they spread easily between people. Nail fungus grows more often in people with weaker immune systems, which rather than suppress it, allow the fungus to become established. Nail fungus is becoming more common in the US. The rise in nail fungus is thought to be due to a combination of increased detection as well as increased risk of infection. Factors that contribute to this increased risk include aging of the population, spread of HIV/AIDS, tight footwear, vigorous physical activity, and use of communal swimming pools, locker rooms, etc.

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the finger or toe nails which is very difficult to cure. Extreme end of the nail is most common site for onset of fungus nail. Appearance of white or yellow patches is the characteristic of fungus nail in its beginning stage. Though the fungus nail usually starts towards far end of nail it may progress towards nail base, if left untreated for considerable time. It will also attack the matrix (nail root) and may result in growth of thicker nails and deformation of nail. Usually, nail of big toe gets affected first with the fungus nail. It may spread to other toenails adjacent to the toenail. In certain severe cases fungus nail can also affect the skin around nails. However, such instances are very rare. Non-treating of fungus nail condition for prolonged periods may lead to nail becoming brittle. Nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds also can be responsible for nail fungal infections. All of these microscopic organisms live in warm, moist environments, including swimming pools and showers. They can invade your skin through tiny invisible cuts or through a small separation between your nail and nail bed. They cause problems only if your nails are continually exposed to warmth and moisture conditions perfect for the growth and spread of fungi. Infection with nail fungus is more common in toenails than in fingernails because toenails are often confined in a dark, warm, moist environment inside your shoes where fungi can thrive. Another reason may be the diminished blood circulation to the toes as compared with the fingers.

Causes of Nail Fungus

Find common causes and risk factors of Nail Fungus :

• Nail fungus infections are caused by dermatophyte fungi (tinea unguium), yeasts such as Candida albicans, and non-dermatophyte molds.
• Factors that may increase the development of nail fungus include humidity, heat, trauma, diabetes mellitus, and underlying tinea pedis (athlete's foot).
• Pedicures.
• Inappropriate nail cutting
• Moisture in the feet after bathing or exercise.
• Patients on immunosuppressants or systemic compromise .
• People with increased perspiration or dampness increases acidity.

Signs and Symptoms of Nail Fungus

Sign and symptoms may include the following :

• Distorted in shape.
• Falling of nails.
• Brittle, crumbly or ragged.
• Yellow or brown discoloration of the toenails.
• Thickening of the affected toenails.
• Appearance of spots on the sides of nail.

Treatment for Nail Fungus

Treatment may include :

• Over the counter antifungal nail creams and ointments are often prescribed.
• Oral antifungal medications help grow a new nail which replaces the infected one. It is a time taking slow process - can take up 12 months also to see results.
• Nail fungus can cause permanent damage to your nails. Nail fungus is difficult to treat and repeated infections are common.
• In certain cases, where the infection becomes severe and difficult to treat, it might become necessary to remove the nail altogether.