Fungal nail infections are more common than many people realize. In fact, fungi naturally live on the skin and in the environment around us. Under normal circumstances, these organisms do not cause problems. However, when there is an overgrowth of fungus, or when fungi enter through small cracks in the skin or nail, a fungal infection can develop.

Most superficial fungal infections are caused by a group of organisms known as dermatophytes, although yeast and mold can also be responsible. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can infect various parts of the body, including the feet, nails, groin, and scalp. When they affect the nails specifically, the condition is known as onychomycosis.

Once a fungal nail infection begins, it often progresses slowly. Without proper treatment, it can worsen over time, spreading to other nails or surrounding skin. Because different fungal organisms and entry points produce different patterns of infection, doctors classify fungal nail infections into distinct types based on how and where they start.

Understanding these different types helps with accurate diagnosis and selecting the most appropriate treatment approach.

Below are the most common types of fungal infections that affect millions of people throughout the United States.

• Tinea pedis, aka athlete’s foot: Early fungal infection that begins between the toes and spreads throughout the feet of people who usually have sweaty feet and shoes. Causes a rash on the skin that is itchy and results in a burning sensation. 
• Candida, aka yeast infection, is the most common cause of fungal infection and is usually good for your body until it overproduces. Usually infects the skin or membranes 
• Tinea Cruris, aka jock itch: Affects the skin of the genitals, inner thighs, and buttocks, resulting in itchiness, redness, and ring-shaped rashes, found in moist areas of your body, affecting people who sweat often.
• Tinea Corporis, aka ringworm: Fungal infection caused by a fungus, not a worm, contrary to popular belief. This results in a rash on the skin that is similar to a ring shape, with an outer ring that is scaly and itchy. Learn more about the symptoms of nail fungus from our recent blog post here.
• Onychomycosis, aka nail fungus: Lives off keratin of the nails and can be found on both hands and feet, resulting in discoloration and change of texture in the nails.
• Tinea Versicolor: Infection caused by a yeast that lives off your skin; however, it overproduces, resulting in indicators of a fungal infection involving a rash and discolorations of the skin.

If you would like a free consultation on your nail condition, give us a call now to schedule your appointment to see one of our podiatrists today!

Laser therapy has become an increasingly popular treatment option for toenail fungus. The FDA-cleared PinPointe™ laser uses focused light energy to target fungal organisms beneath the nail plate without damaging the surrounding tissue. Because the laser penetrates through the nail, it can reach the source of the infection more directly than many topical treatments.

Unlike oral antifungal medications, laser treatment does not circulate through the bloodstream. This eliminates concerns about systemic side effects or the need for liver monitoring. Most patients describe the procedure as comfortable, experiencing only mild warmth during treatment. Sessions are typically brief, and there is no required downtime, allowing patients to resume normal activities immediately afterward.

While results vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual health factors, many patients see gradual improvement as a healthy nail grows in over time. In some cases, more than one session may be recommended to achieve optimal results.

If you are experiencing signs of toenail fungus, scheduling an evaluation can help determine whether laser treatment or another option is most appropriate for your condition.

To learn more or to schedule a consultation at our Walnut Creek, CA location, call (800) 672-0625 or visit our website to find a clinic near you.