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Facts & FAQs |
Nail Fungus Infection Facts |
| (From the American Podiatric Medical Association) |
Fungal infection of the nail, or onychomycosis, is often ignored because the infection can be present for years without causing any pain. The disease is characterized by a progressive change in a toenail's quality and color, which is often ugly and embarrassing.
In reality, the condition is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. When the tiny organisms take hold, the nail often becomes darker in color and foul smelling. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, white marks frequently appear on the nail plate, and the infection is capable of spreading to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails. If ignored, the infection can spread and possibly impair one's ability to work or even walk. This happens because the resulting thicker nails are difficult to trim and make walking painful when wearing shoes. |
Onychomycosis can also be accompanied by a secondary bacterial or yeast infection in or about the nail plate. Because it is difficult to avoid contact with microscopic organisms like fungi, the toenails are especially vulnerable around damp areas where people are likely to be walking barefoot, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Injury to the nail bed may make it more susceptible to all types of infection, including fungal infection. Those who suffer from chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails. Other contributing factors may be a history of athlete's foot and excessive perspiration. |
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Frequently Asked Questions |
- What causes nail problems? (infections, thickening, nail lifting)
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Nail problems have a wide variety of causes including allergic reactions, trauma, side effects of medications, infections (including bacteria, fungi and viruses), diminished circulation, smoking, and illnesses that effect many parts of the body, to name a few. If the nail is elevated, or lifted off the nail bed, a space develops under the nail where water and germs may accumulate.
Once under the nail, these germs find a perfect environment to grow – a warm, moist area with a continuous blood supply bringing a constant food source, encouraging germs to multiply. Only a qualified physician is able to determine the cause of lifting, or if an infection is the result of a fungus, bacteria, or a combination of both. |
- How do I know what type of problem I have?
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Only a physician is capable of diagnosing a nail condition. In order to determine your specific problem, a physician needs to take a thorough history as well as perform some laboratory tests.
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- How long does it take to get rid of a nail infection?
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The length of time involved is determined by nail growth: No medication available can make a problem nail return to normal overnight. It takes approximately 3 to 6 months for fingernails and 6 to 12 months for toenails to grow out completely. In some individuals, with poor circulation or chronic medical conditions, the time required for re-growth may be much longer. Some lifestyle changes may be required such as not going barefoot, wearing foot coverings in public spaces such as gyms and community pools.
Also the daily rotation of shoes and clean socks (preferably light colored) along with thorough disinfection of shower stall floor will help to eliminate sources of possible re-infection. |
- Why is nail fungus so difficult to treat?
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| The nails of our fingers and toes are tremendously effective barriers. This barrier makes it quite difficult for a superficial infection to invade the nail. Once an infection has set up residence, the same barrier that was so effective in protecting us against infection now works against us, making it difficult to treat the infection.
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