Isla Bennett
Toenail fungus is a fungal nail infection that causes the nail to thicken, discolour, and crumble or break easily. It is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm, dark, and moist places, such as the feet, and can spread to multiple nails. The infection is typically treated with antifungal medications, which can be applied topically or taken orally. While toenail fungus can be difficult to treat, it is considered cured when new nail growth is healthy and the nail affected by the infection grows out. This process can take up to 12-18 months, and during this time, it is important to take preventive measures and maintain proper nail care to avoid recurrence.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Treatment | Oral and topical antifungal medications, laser treatment, home remedies |
| Treatment duration | 6 weeks for fingernails, 12 weeks for toenails, up to 1 year for toenail regrowth |
| Symptoms | Discolouration (white, yellow, green, brown), thickening, brittleness, crumbling, breaking |
| Causes | Fungus that causes athlete's foot, walking barefoot in communal areas, weakened immune system |
| Prevention | Keeping feet cool, dry, wearing footwear in public places |
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Toenail fungus symptoms
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection caused by the same fungus that causes athlete's foot. It thrives in warm, dark, and moist environments, often affecting the toenails but it can also occur in the fingernails. The infection usually starts at the edge of the nail and spreads slowly, causing various symptoms that indicate its progression. Here are some key symptoms of toenail fungus:
Discoloration
One of the earliest signs of toenail fungus is nail discolouration. The nail may start with a white or yellowish spot and gradually turn yellow, green, brown, or even black. Such discolouration distinguishes toenail fungus from nail psoriasis, which typically presents with pinkish, reddish, or purplish tones.
Thickening and Brittleness
Infected toenails often become thickened and brittle, making them more prone to cracking and breaking. This can lead to pain and swelling of the surrounding skin, indicating a more advanced stage of the infection.
Crumbling and Separation
As the fungus progresses, the nail may start to crumble or separate from the nail bed. This can result in the entire nail breaking off, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of bacterial infections.
Odour
Toenail fungus can lead to the breakdown of the nail and surrounding skin, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. This can result in a distinct, unpleasant odour emanating from the affected toenail(s).
Itching and Burning
In addition to visual changes, individuals with toenail fungus may experience intense itching or a burning sensation, especially between the toes. This sensation is often noticeable after removing shoes or socks.
It is important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and presentation. If you suspect you have toenail fungus, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early treatment can prevent the infection from worsening and causing further complications.
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Treatment options
Toenail fungus is a common but challenging condition. It is caused by fungi called dermatophytes that infect the skin beneath the nail; yeast is another common culprit. Toenail fungus often affects the toenails but can also occur in the fingernails. The infection usually starts at the edge of the nail and spreads to the rest of the nail, causing it to become thick, discoloured, brittle, and easy to break.
Topical medications
Topical medications are available over the counter and by prescription. These include creams, ointments, sprays, and liquids. Topical treatments are often prescribed for nail fungal infections that aren't too severe. However, they may not be as effective as oral medications and can take longer to work.
Oral medications
Prescription antifungal pills offer the best chance of getting rid of toenail fungus quickly. Examples include Sporanox (Itraconazole) and Lamisil (terbinafine). Oral medications are usually more effective than topical treatments and typically clear infections within two to three months. However, they may have side effects and interact with other medications and alcohol. They can also affect the liver, so liver function tests may be necessary during treatment.
Laser therapy
Laser treatment can temporarily improve the appearance of the nail but has a lower cure rate than oral medication.
Surgical nail removal
In severe cases that do not respond to treatment, the infected nail may be surgically removed to treat the nail bed, allowing a healthy nail to grow back. This is not a common practice and is usually only considered for recurring infections.
Home remedies
Some home remedies have been found to be effective in treating toenail fungus. These include tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, ozonized sunflower oil, baking soda paste, and Vicks VapoRub. However, it is important to note that these remedies may not work for everyone, and recurrence rates for toenail fungus are high.
It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of toenail fungus. They can determine the best course of treatment based on the severity of the infection and your individual needs.
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Home remedies
Toenail fungus is a common condition that affects about 14% of the global population at any given time. It is characterised by thickened, discoloured, and brittle nails, and is caused by various fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and moulds. These microorganisms thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and public pools.
- Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has natural antifungal and antiseptic properties. In a study, 100% tea tree oil applied twice daily cleared nail fungus in 18% of participants after six months, with noticeable improvement in 56%. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil, and apply directly to the affected nail using a cotton swab. Repeat this process twice daily for several weeks.
- Vicks VapoRub: Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment typically used for cough suppression. However, its active ingredients, camphor and eucalyptus oil, may help treat toenail fungus. Apply a small amount to the affected area at least once a day.
- Snakeroot extract: Snakeroot (Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is a plant-based antifungal remedy that has been found effective against toenail fungus. In a study, snakeroot extract was applied to the affected area every third day for the first month, twice a week for the second month, and once a week for the third month.
- Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy that has been suggested for treating toenail fungus. While there may not be specific instructions on its application, it is likely to be applied topically to the affected area.
- Garlic: Garlic is another low-cost, natural solution for mild toenail fungus infections. It can be applied topically to the affected area, but specific instructions on its use may vary.
In addition to these remedies, it is important to practice good foot hygiene, including washing and drying your feet daily, especially between the toes. Choose breathable footwear and socks, and avoid wearing damp socks for extended periods. Use antifungal powder in your shoes to reduce moisture, and trim your nails straight across to prevent ingrown nails, which can harbour fungi. Keep your toenails dry, clean, and well-trimmed once the infection has cleared.
While home remedies can be effective for mild cases, severe or persistent fungal infections require medical attention. Do not use home remedies if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system. Consult your doctor or a healthcare professional if home remedies do not work or cause side effects, or if you suspect a skin infection or recurrence of the fungal infection.
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Prevention
Toenail fungus is considered cured when a new, healthy nail grows from the base of the nail. However, the relapse rate for toenail fungus infections is up to 53%. Therefore, it is important to take measures to prevent toenail fungus. Here are some ways to do so:
Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry
Wash your feet daily with soap and water, especially between your toes, and dry them thoroughly afterward. Clean and dry feet and nails are less likely to pick up a fungus. Fungi thrive in warm, damp areas, so it is important to avoid having damp or sweaty feet for too long.
Wear Proper Footwear and Socks
Wear breathable shoes that are not too tight, such as those made of leather, canvas, or mesh. These materials allow for airflow and help prevent your feet from sweating. In addition, wear moisture-wicking socks that pull moisture away from your feet. Put on a fresh pair of socks every day, and if your socks get sweaty, change them immediately. Allow your shoes to dry for 24 hours before wearing them again.
Practice Good Nail Hygiene
Keep your nails short and trimmed straight across, especially your toenails, which should be shorter than the end of your toes. Long nails can collect fungi and other germs. Disinfect your nail clippers and other grooming tools, such as files and scissors, after each use. Wash the clippers with warm water and soap, then disinfect them.
Avoid Barefoot in Public Places
Fungi spread easily from person to person, so it is important to avoid going barefoot in public places, such as communal showers, pools, and locker rooms. Instead, wear shower shoes or flip-flops in these areas. Additionally, do not share personal items like shoes, socks, towels, or nail-grooming tools with others.
Treat Athlete's Foot Promptly
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that can spread to your toenails. If you develop symptoms like cracked, scaly, or peeling skin on your feet, or itching, burning, or stinging between your toes, treat it immediately. Wash all your socks in hot water and detergent, and disinfect or throw away any shoes you wore before starting treatment. Fungi can live in shoes and give you another infection.
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Recurrence
Toenail fungus is considered cured when new nail growth is healthy, and the nail affected by the infection grows out. However, recurrence is common, with a relapse rate of up to 53%. Recurrence is more likely in people with conditions such as diabetes. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas, including other nails.
To prevent recurrence, it is important to take measures such as keeping your feet cool and dry, wearing footwear in public places, and trimming your toenails. Additionally, maintaining good foot hygiene is crucial. This includes letting your feet air out when possible, wearing sweat-wicking socks, avoiding shoes that press on your nails, and keeping your tub and shower surfaces clean.
If you suspect that your fungal infection has returned, it is important to consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend a treatment plan that includes oral or topical antifungal medications. For example, prescription medications such as Sporanox (Itraconazole) or Lamisil (terbinafine) are often used to treat toenail fungus. These medications can be more effective than topical treatments but may have side effects and interactions with alcohol and sunlight exposure.
In some cases, your healthcare provider may suggest more aggressive treatments to prevent recurrence. This could include removing the nail and using chemicals to destroy the nail matrix, preventing the nail from growing back. Laser treatments have also been studied as a potential option to improve the appearance of the nail after a fungal infection has cleared, but more research is needed to determine their safety and effectiveness.
While treating a recurrent fungal infection, it is important to practice good nail hygiene. This includes keeping your nails clean and trimming or filing them regularly to remove any dead or infected layers. This helps the medication penetrate deeper into the nail and increase its effectiveness. Additionally, your doctor may recommend home remedies or over-the-counter treatments to use in conjunction with prescription medications.
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Frequently asked questions
Toenail fungus can be identified by white, brown, or yellow spots on the toenail. The nail might thicken, crumble or start to lift from the toe. In some cases, the whole nail can break off.
Toenail fungus can be treated with antifungal drugs, creams, gels, sprays, and patches. These are available at drugstores or online without a prescription. For more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe medication such as Sporanox (Itraconazole) or Lamisil (terbinafine).
Toenails can take 12 to 18 months to grow back. During this time, your doctor will likely recommend a cream or other treatment to prevent the fungus from returning.
