What Causes Toenail Fungus and How is it Treated?

Toenail fungus is more common than many people realize, and include around 3 million cases per year. This condition is one that is treatable. By speaking with a physician about the issues that you are seeing, you can get the right treatment to make the fungus go away.

It is important to know what symptoms to look for and what types of treatments are used to take care of this common problem. Here are some facts you should know –

SYMPTOMS OF TOENAIL FUNGUS

Toenail fungus comes with specific symptoms. Recognizing these problems and scheduling a doctor’s appointment can help a person receive the treatment necessary to clear the issue up. The symptoms that are most noticed with this type of fungus include:

• Oddly shaped nail
• Thicker than normal nail bed
• Warped looking nail with ridges or indents
• Easily breakable or flaky nails
• Yellowish looking nails
• Slightly foul smell

It is important to note that sometimes a white spot will show up on the nail. This will then turn into the yellowish spot. The fungus can make a patient lose their nail if it is left untreated. It can also get into the skin around the nail bed, creating further problems. This makes it important to recognize these signs and get treatment right away.

CAUSES OF THIS FUNGUS

There are multiple causes of this fungus. It is important to note that men are more likely to suffer from it than women. The older a person is, the higher their chances are of getting this type of fungus as well. The main risk factors and causes of toenail fungus include –

• Having diabetes
• Having a weakened immune systems
• Smoking
• A family history of fungus
• Athlete's foot
• Spending a lot of time in the water
• Walking barefoot in damp areas
• Wearing dirty or wet socks
• Not bathing regularly

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR TOENAIL FUNGUS

There are treatment options available for those that have toenail fungus. It is important to see a physician that can diagnose the fungus and start the patient on the right treatment plan, which could include:

• Topical creams for the nail
• Antifungal pills
• Removing the damaged area
• Topical nail lacquer
• Removing the toenail

The method that is used to treat the specific fungus will depend on the severity of the issue.

PREVENT FUTURE TOENAIL FUNGUS

Once the fungus is gone, it is important to prevent it from returning. Wearing shoes in damp areas and taking good care of the feet are all good measures to take.

CALL US FOR HELP

Fungus of any kind is easy to get rid of, but it is important that it is taken care of sooner, rather than later. This can prevent any serious issues from happening while allowing the nail bed to heal.

Request a physician appointment here: https://footdoctorinsanjose.com or call Leonard Greenwald, D.P.M. at (408) 827-9483 for an appointment in our San Jose office.