You may think it’s embarrassing, but toenail fungus is a common condition that affects many people, making up to about 50% of nail abnormalities. Otherwise known as onychomycosis, nail fungus is an infection in your toenail caused by microscopic fungi in the nail. There are many factors that can cause toenail fungus, and some people are more susceptible to it than others.
It’s fairly easy to spot the symptoms, which is why it’s essential that you get it treated at its earliest stages. Like many conditions, if left untreated, a fungal infection could become worse, and can even spread around the skin of your infected nail as well as to other parts of your body. Hence, there’s definitely no shame in getting treatment.
What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus affects a part of the nail, the entirety of the nail, and even several nails at a time. It is easy to spot, and the symptoms are extremely visible, making it easy to treat during its earlier stages. The common signs of a fungal nail infection are one or more of the following:
- A white or yellow spot under the nail
- White or yellow streaks on the nail
- A whitish to yellow-brown discoloration on the nail
- A darker color nail caused by debris build-up
- Distorted or warped nail
- Loose nail or nail lifting off the nail bed
- Thickened nail
- Brittle and crumbling nails
- A foul smell or odor coming from the nail
Who is at risk for toenail fungus?
While pretty much anyone can get it, some are simply more likely to be at risk than others. Those who are more likely to develop a fungal infection include those who:
- Are male
- Are over the age of 65
- Have poor blood circulation
- Have diabetes
- Have a weak immune system
- Have or have a history with athlete’s foot
- Have skin conditions such as psoriasis
- Have minor skin or nail injuries
- Have slower-growing nails
- Are regular smokers
- Have family members who have it
- Sweat heavily
- Have moist toes for an extended period
- Wear acrylic or artificial nails
- Swim in public swimming pools
- Constantly wear socks, tight footwear, or closed-toe shoes that prevent proper ventilation
- Walk barefoot in damp communal areas such as swimming pools, gyms, and shower rooms
What causes toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus are caused by various fungal organisms or fungi, most commonly dermatophyte. However, yeasts or molds can also cause fungal nail infections. Since the same fungi that causes athlete’s foot also causes nail fungal infections, toenail fungus can start from athlete’s foot, and can spread from one nail to another.
While typically anyone of any age can suffer from fungal infections, it’s more common in older adults, specifically those who are over 65 years of age. This is because, as you age, your nails also age, causing it to become dry and brittle. The resulting cracks in the nails allow the microscopic fungi to enter. Reduced blood circulation and a weaker immune system, both more prevalent in older adults, are other factors that play a role in causing fungal infections.
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There’s no shame in looking for treatment for toenail fungus. It’s a common problem that can easily be solved through various treatments, including home remedies. It’s better to look for treatment earlier on before the condition worsens or spreads.
