Fungal toenails, also known as “onychomycosis,” can be an unsightly but common problem. A fungal toenail infection is suspected when you see some discoloration of a toenail. However, they can be commonly mistaken for other conditions, such as thick nails, peeling nails, or brittle nails. To confirm whether or not your toenail is infected with fungus, it is best to have it assessed by a medical professional. If it is fungal, treatment can take some time to fully get rid of the infection. Prior to and during treatment, be mindful of the possibility of spreading the fungus to other toes, or to other people’s feet in public settings as fungal infections are contagious.
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Symptoms
The appearance of a fungal nail can vary, depending on severity and the length of its affliction. Most commonly, you may see some areas of discoloration of the toenail, either to a white or yellow-brown colour. However, as it progresses, the nail may start to become thick, even curling up or lifting off of the toe. Some of the hallmark signs of a toenail fungal infection are the nail’s brittleness and how easily a fungal nail can crumble. Perhaps the most obvious sign will be its odour. Feet may get sweaty and odorous at the end of a long day, but fungus will smell like spoiled eggs, as it eats away at the nail.
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Causes
Fungus is a microorganism like bacteria, so it is contagious and too small to be seen without a microscope. By keeping proper foot hygiene, wearing water shoes, and not sharing shoes with others, you can avoid it as best as you can, but be wary of public and shared spaces or pedicure salons who do not sterilize equipment. For example, in hot tubs and saunas, the water/temperature is very warm and a perfect environment for fungus to thrive in.
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Treatment
Fungal toenails can be very tricky to get rid of, so it is best to see a dedicated footcare clinician, such as a Chiropodist or Footcare Nurse. There are ways to prevent infection from occurring, and as mentioned before, it is with optimal hygiene practices. Fungi grow in moist and dark environments, so your feet inside their socks and shoes can be the perfect breeding ground. Be sure to change your socks regularly and keep them dry, especially after showers or water-based activities. If you are active for most of the day, it can be good to change your socks even multiple times a day. Avoid salons without steam sterilization practices. Consider wearing white socks that can be regularly bleached and clean the family shower often.
Medications prescribed by your healthcare professional will work best, but sometimes people want to try something at home. There is some thought that remedies such as tea tree oil help.
More advanced treatment methods such as laser therapy, light therapy, and toenail removal are becoming much more prominent as well. Please check with your local BioPed clinic to see about availability of these modalities/services.
