A nail fungus explanation is simple to understand, but people don’t tend to talk about it. Nail fungus isn’t exactly the glamorous topic anyone hopes to discuss, but here we are, trudging through humanity’s greatest hits. It’s basically a stubborn little organism that sneaks under the nail and slowly wrecks the place like an uninvited houseguest. Warm, damp feet give it the perfect playground, and once it settles in, your nail starts changing color, thickening, and generally acting like it has better things to do than look normal. Despite the annoyance, understanding how it starts makes it easier to stop the whole mess before it becomes a full-time hobby.
Nail fungus explanation
Nail fungus is an infection that affects the nails on the hands or feet. It usually begins as a small spot under the nail. The fungus grows slowly and spreads deeper into the nail over time. Many people notice changes in color or texture before feeling discomfort.
Fungal infections thrive in warm and moist environments. Sweat, tight shoes, and damp areas allow fungus to grow easily. Small cracks in the nail or skin help the fungus enter. Once inside, it feeds on keratin, the protein that forms the nail. This process weakens the nail and causes visible damage.
As the infection develops, the nail may thicken or become brittle. It can turn yellow, white, or brown. Some nails crumble at the edges or lift from the nail bed. Mild infections cause only cosmetic changes, but severe cases may cause discomfort or pain. Early treatment helps prevent the fungus from spreading and protects overall nail health.
People most likely to get nail fungus
Certain people are more likely to develop a nail fungus infection. Older adults face a higher risk due to slower nail growth. Reduced circulation also makes it harder to fight fungus. Thick nails in seniors can trap moisture and create ideal conditions for infection.
People with sweaty feet are also more likely to get nail fungus. Excess moisture softens the skin around the nails. Softened skin allows fungus to enter small cracks more easily. Tight or non-breathable shoes can increase this risk.
Individuals with weakened immune systems face greater danger as well. Their bodies have a harder time stopping fungal growth. Conditions like diabetes can also increase infection risk. Poor blood flow in the feet makes it harder to heal small injuries.
People who frequently visit public areas may also be more exposed. Locker rooms and pool decks often contain fungal spores. Walking barefoot increases the chance of infection. Wearing sandals or protective footwear can help reduce this risk.
Different types of nail fungus infections
Distal subungual onychomycosis is the most common nail fungus infection. It usually starts at the nail tip. The fungus slowly spreads under the nail. The nail may thicken and turn yellow. Many people notice crumbling edges as it progresses.
White superficial onychomycosis affects only the nail surface. It creates white, chalky spots on the nail. The infection stays on the top layers at first. The nail often becomes soft and powdery. Treatment is usually easier with this type.
Proximal subungual onychomycosis is less common but more aggressive. It begins near the nail base. The infection moves upward as the nail grows. This type may signal weaker immunity. The nail often shows discoloration near the cuticle.
Candida nail infections occur from yeast, not dermatophytes. They usually affect swollen or irritated nail folds. The area around the nail becomes red and tender. The infection can cause painful swelling. This type is more common in people with frequent moisture exposure.
Nail fungus symptoms
Nail fungus often begins with subtle changes in nail color. The nail may turn yellow, brown, or white. Many people first notice small spots or streaks. These changes usually spread slowly over time. Early symptoms are often painless.
As the infection grows, the nail may thicken. Thick nails can become difficult to trim. The surface may develop a rough or crumbly texture. Some nails begin to lift from the nail bed. This lifting can trap debris underneath the nail.
Discomfort may appear as the infection worsens. Some people feel mild pain when wearing shoes. The nail may emit an unpleasant odor. Surrounding skin can become irritated or inflamed. Severe infections may cause the nail to break easily.
Advanced symptoms can affect daily activities. Walking may feel uncomfortable due to nail pressure. The infection may spread to neighboring nails. Visible changes can also impact nail appearance. Early treatment helps prevent these problems.
Treatment options for toenail fungus
If you do find yourself with a nail fungus infection, there are several treatment options recommended by foot doctors. Here are some of the common approaches:
- Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams can help prevent nail fungal infections. However, they are not very effective for treating an active infection and have a success rate of less than 10%. These creams are most useful as preventive measures or for mild cases of nail fungus.
- Oral antifungal medication: Medications are commonly prescribed for more severe cases of nail fungus. However, they come with potential side effects, including liver toxicity. Routine blood testing to monitor your liver is necessary during the course of treatment, and the average cure rate is only around 60%.
- Laser treatment: The most advanced option for nail fungus treatment is laser therapy. Laser treatment offers a non-invasive and effective approach to eliminating nail fungus. Various lasers are available, with differing success rates and FDA approvals. The PinPointe laser treatment, approved by the FDA, is a highly effective option, typically requiring only one session and offering no downtime or pain. It targets the fungus directly, penetrating the nail and killing the infection at its source.
For nail fungus treatment, we highly recommend the PinPointe Laser as it boasts the highest cure rate in the market. It has no side effects, you can go about your daily activities right after, and it is a painless procedure.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have any signs of nail fungus, don’t wait. Our nail doctors offer the Pinpointe laser treatment, the most effective and safe method for curing nail fungus. Call us today at (800) 672-0625 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation at a location near you.
