Nail Fungus: Symptoms & Causes

By Med-Fit Content Team . Last Updated Thursday, 10th August 2023

What is Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis (on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis), is a prevalent nail infection that often starts as a white or yellow-brown spot beneath the tip of a fingernail or toenail.

As the fungal infection progresses, the nail can undergo discoloration, thickening, and crumbling at the edges. This condition, also referred to as tinea unguium, has the potential to impact multiple nails.

While some cases of nail fungus might be mild and not bothersome, prompting the avoidance of treatment, severe instances with discomfort and thickened nails warrant attention. Self-care measures and medications can provide relief in such situations. However, it's important to note that even if treatment appears successful, recurrence of nail fungus is common.

Fungal nail infections, which can be both unpleasant and occasionally painful, are more manageable if addressed promptly. Early intervention can facilitate the eradication of the underlying infection causing this issue. Apart from affecting nails, fungal infections can extend to the areas between toes and the skin of the feet, known as athlete's foot or tinea pedis. These infections arise due to the proliferation of fungal spores infiltrating the region beneath the toenail and skin. These spores thrive by feeding on the skin or the keratin present in the nail.

The same type of fungi responsible for causing athlete's foot, a prevalent skin condition primarily occurring between the toes, can also contribute to the spread of infection to the nails.

In rarer cases, fungal nail infections may stem from other types of fungi, typically yeasts. These infections tend to target nails that are already compromised or damaged, as they offer a more accessible entry point for the invading fungi. There are a number of Nail fungus treatments available and this is mentioned later in blog.

What does Nail Fungus look like?

Are you wondering about the telltale signs of toenail fungus? Understanding these symptoms is essential for effective treatment. Here's an overview of how toenail fungus can manifest visually:

Change in Nail Color: Keep an eye out for a shift in your toenail's color, which might turn shades of yellow, brown, or even white.
Thickened and Distorted Appearance: If your toenail starts appearing unusually thickened or takes on a misshapen form, it could be indicative of a fungal infection.
Chalkiness or Cloudiness: Observe your toenail closely for chalky or cloudy patches that might emerge on its surface.
Nail Separation: A clear indication of toenail fungus is the separation of your toenail from the underlying nail bed.
Frequent Breaks and Cracks: Noticeable breaks and cracks appearing in one or more areas of your toenail could be a result of fungal infection.

Toenail fungus can manifest in various ways, altering the visual characteristics of your toenails. Recognizing these visual cues is vital in addressing the issue before it progresses further.

What causes Nail Fungus?

A nail fungal infection typically begins as a white or yellow streak at the edge of your nail, just beneath the tip. Gradually, this streak extends down the side of your nail towards its base. As the infection progresses, your nail becomes discolored, thickened, and distorted, sometimes growing so thick that it becomes painful when pressed against footwear.

Over time, the nail may crumble, split, and detach from the skin. Often, it takes on a yellow or brown hue. The surrounding skin can also be affected, showing signs such as itching, cracking, blister formation, or appearing white—particularly between the toes. Prompt action is crucial if any of these symptoms are observed, as untreated infections have the potential to worsen and spread to other nails.

Fungal nail infections are caused by minuscule microorganisms known as fungi, which infiltrate the nail structure. Many individuals acquire these fungi through direct skin contact with someone harboring a fungal infection, such as athlete’s foot or ringworm on their hands.

Another common mode of transmission is walking barefoot in warm, moist environments like pool decks or locker rooms, where these fungi flourish. Sharing contaminated nail clippers or towels is also a source of infection transmission. However, infection transmission is not solely restricted to interpersonal contact. You can develop a fungal nail infection if your nails are frequently moist or if you habitually wear damp socks and shoes.

Fungi generally infiltrate a nail through various points of vulnerability, including small cuts in the surrounding skin, cracks within the nail, or separations between the nail and the adjacent finger or toe. The moist environment beneath the nail provides an ideal setting for fungal growth, enabling the infection to propagate to other nails and potentially even the skin.

Treatments for Nail Fungus?

Understanding how to effectively treat fungal toenail infections is crucial to prevent further damage and complications. Ignoring the issue or leaving it untreated can lead to rapid deterioration of your toenails.

If you suspect a fungal toenail infection, consider the following treatment options, ranging from natural remedies to advanced techniques Some Treatments:

Nail Fungus Laser: The type of treating that is gaining popularity is a home nail fungus laser treatment. This non-invasive technique involves using laser energy to target and eliminate fungal cells within the nail and underlying tissue. The treatment is designed to be precise and effective, with minimal discomfort and no downtime.
Nail Fungus Cream: Similar to the Nail Laser Treatment with the laser, the cream is effective and can be even more effective if used alongside the Nail Laser.
Snakeroot Extract: Nature often holds potent solutions. The extract from the snakeroot plant possesses antifungal properties that can effectively treat fungal nail infections. Research suggests its efficacy rivals that of ciclopirox, a common over-the-counter antifungal treatment.
Ozone Oils: Certain oils like sunflower and olive oil contain ozone gases similar to those in the Earth's ozone layer. Studies indicate that these "ozonized" oils show promise in treating nail fungus. In fact, a study revealed that sunflower oil exhibited stronger clinical effects compared to the antifungal medication ketoconazole.
Oregano Oil: Another natural remedy, oregano oil, contains a compound called thymol with known antifungal properties. While oregano oil is sometimes combined with tea tree oil for treatment, caution is advised due to potential side effects, irritation, and allergies.

The Do’s and Don'ts when avoiding Nail Fungus

Do's:

Maintain Nail Cleanliness and Dryness: Regularly cleanse and thoroughly dry your nails, ensuring the spaces between your toes are completely moisture-free.
Prioritize Hygiene Practices: Routinely cleanse your hands and feet with soap and water, and consider using antifungal soap when needed.
Trim Nails with Care: Trim your nails straight across, avoiding excessive shortening. Employ clean and sanitized nail clippers.
Opt for Breathable Footwear: Choose footwear crafted from breathable materials like leather or mesh to minimize moisture retention.
Rotate Shoes and Socks: Allow your shoes and socks ample time to air out and dry completely between wearing's.

Don'ts:

Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Steer clear of sharing nail tools, files, towels, or footwear to prevent the spread of fungal infections.
Refrain from Barefoot Walking: Abstain from walking barefoot in public areas, particularly in damp or humid locales where fungi flourish.
Say No to Tight, Non-Breathable Shoes: Eschew tightly fitting, non-breathable shoes that encourage fungal growth. Opt for footwear that promotes proper airflow.
Swiftly Change Damp Socks and Shoes: Change out of damp socks and shoes promptly to discourage moisture accumulation.
Minimize Nail Trauma: Take precautions to avoid nail injuries, as these can create entry points for fungal invasion.

By Paul Warburton . Last Updated Friday, 17th September 2021

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