What Is Toenail Fungus
- Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is a fungal infection underneath the surface of the nail. Tinea Pedis is a fungal infection elsewhere on the foot (skin)
- Often begins at one toenail and can spread to other toenails, and skin over time
- Fungal nails often appear crumbly, yellow, and thick
Causes
- Barefoot walking (especially in bathing facilities, swimming pools, locker rooms etc.)
- Nail bed injury
- Conditions causing immune deficiencies (i.e. diabetes)
- Excessive perspiration or exposure to dark moist environments (i.e. shoes)
Symptoms
- Often present for years with no pain or any other symptoms
When To Visit A Foot Specialist
- Any abnormal nail presentation should be assessed by a foot specialist. Earlier treatment = greater chance of clearing infection!
What Can I Expect During The Visit
- Physical examination of the lower limbs
- Nail culture
- Nail debridement
- Prescription of medications to treat fungus
- Surgical intervention
Prevention
- Practice good foot hygiene
- Clean/disinfect instruments used to cut nails at home
- Wear moisture resistance socks and change regularly
- Wear flip-flops in public facilities such as swimming pool decks
- Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is a fungal infection underneath the surface of the nail. Tinea Pedis is a fungal infection elsewhere on the foot (skin)
- Often begins at one toenail and can spread to other toenails, and skin over time
- Fungal nails often appear crumbly, yellow, and thick
Causes
- Barefoot walking (especially in bathing facilities, swimming pools, locker rooms etc.)
- Nail bed injury
- Conditions causing immune deficiencies (i.e. diabetes)
- Excessive perspiration or exposure to dark moist environments (i.e. shoes)
Symptoms
- Often present for years with no pain or any other symptoms
When To Visit A Foot Specialist
- Any abnormal nail presentation should be assessed by a foot specialist. Earlier treatment = greater chance of clearing infection!
What Can I Expect During The Visit
- Physical examination of the lower limbs
- Nail culture
- Nail debridement
- Prescription of medications to treat fungus
- Surgical intervention
Prevention
- Practice good foot hygiene
- Clean/disinfect instruments used to cut nails at home
- Wear moisture resistance socks and change regularly
- Wear flip-flops in public facilities such as swimming pool decks