Sophia Delgado
Nail fungus is a fungal nail infection that occurs when a fungus attacks a fingernail, toenail or the skin under the nail. It is caused by tiny, microscopic organisms called fungi (the plural of fungus) and can be spread through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a fungal infection, such as athlete's foot or ringworm, or by walking barefoot in warm, moist areas. Nail fungus can also be spread by sharing infected nail clippers or towels, or by frequently wearing sweaty socks and shoes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Microscopic organisms called fungi |
| How it spreads | Skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a fungal infection, walking barefoot in a warm, moist area, sharing infected nail clippers or towels, frequently moist nails, or wearing sweaty socks and shoes |
| Symptoms | White or yellow spots under the nail that spread and can turn the whole nail white, yellow, green, or black; thickened, distorted, and brittle nails; pain or discomfort |
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What You'll Learn
What causes nail fungus?
Nail fungus is caused by an overgrowth of fungi in, under, or on the nail. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so this type of environment can cause them to naturally overpopulate. The same fungi that cause jock itch, athlete's foot, and ringworm can cause nail infections.
Fungal nail infections are common and are caused by fungi that live in the environment. They enter through small cracks in your nail or the nearby skin, causing infection. Fungi are normally present in and on the body alongside various bacteria. But when a fungus begins to overgrow, you can get an infection. Onychomycosis, also called tinea unguium, is a fungal infection that affects either the fingernails or toenails.
Fungal infections normally develop over time, so any immediate difference in the way your nail looks or feels may be too subtle to notice at first. Nails that are brittle, discoloured, or unusually thick are likely to have a fungal infection. A fungal infection may cause nails to crumble and crack easily. They may turn white or yellow. The entire nail may loosen and lift off, and the surrounding skin can swell and grow painful.
You can get a fungal nail infection by walking barefoot in a warm, moist area such as a pool deck or locker room. You can also get it by sharing an infected nail clipper or towel. You can also get the infection from contact with spaces where fungi can thrive, such as the floor tile in a gym shower or inside dark, sweaty, moist shoes.
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How does nail fungus spread?
Nail fungus is a fungal nail infection, which occurs when a fungus attacks a fingernail, toenail, or the skin under the nail, called the nail bed. The fungi usually infect a nail by getting into a warm, moist place, such as a pool deck or locker room, or by skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a fungal infection, such as athlete's foot or ringworm on their hands.
Nail fungus spreads by getting into a warm, moist place, such as a nail bed, where it can grow. It can also spread through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a fungal infection, such as athlete's foot or ringworm. Walking barefoot in a warm, moist area, such as a pool deck or locker room, can also spread nail fungus. Sharing infected nail clippers or towels can also spread the infection.
Nail fungus can also spread from one nail to another, and even to the skin. It is more common in toenails than fingernails, and the medical name for a fungal nail infection is onychomycosis. The infection develops slowly and causes the nail to become discoloured, thickened, and distorted. It may also become brittle or crumbly, and pieces may break off and come away completely.
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What are the symptoms of nail fungus?
Nail fungus is a fungal nail infection, also known as onychomycosis, caused by tiny, microscopic organisms called fungi. These fungi thrive in warm, moist areas and can be picked up through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a fungal infection, such as athlete's foot or ringworm, or by walking barefoot in a warm, moist area like a pool deck or locker room.
Symptoms of nail fungus
The symptoms of nail fungus can vary depending on the type of fungal nail infection. Initially, symptoms may be mild and not cause any obvious issues. However, over time, the infection can spread and become more serious. Here are some common symptoms associated with nail fungus:
- Discolouration of the nail: The nail may turn white, yellow, green, or black.
- Thickening and distortion of the nail: The nail may become thickened, brittle, or crumbly, making it difficult to trim.
- Pain or discomfort: This is particularly noticeable when using or placing pressure on the affected toe or finger.
- Curling or loosening of the nail: The nail may start to curl up or down or loosen from the nail bed.
- Spread to other nails or skin: The infection can spread to other nails or even the surrounding skin.
It is important to note that not all symptoms may be present, and the appearance and severity of symptoms can vary depending on the type of fungal nail infection and the individual. If you suspect you have a nail fungus, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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How is nail fungus treated?
Nail fungus is a fungal nail infection. It occurs when a fungus attacks a fingernail, a toenail, or the skin under the nail, called the nail bed. Fungi are tiny organisms that thrive in warm, moist areas. Many people pick up the fungi when they have skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a fungal infection such as athlete's foot or ringworm on their hands. Toenails are more frequently affected than fingernails.
There are several ways to treat nail fungus. Firstly, it is important to keep your nails trimmed and filed straight across. You should also smooth the edges with a file and file down thickened areas. Disinfect your nail clippers after each use and wear absorbent socks or change your socks throughout the day. Choose shoes made of materials that breathe and discard old shoes or treat them with disinfectants or antifungal powders. Wear footwear in pool areas and locker rooms and give up nail polish and artificial nails.
There are also some home remedies that can be used to treat nail fungus. Vinegar does fight fungus, so you can mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts warm water and soak your feet for at least 10 minutes. Baking soda is another option, as it has been found to prevent fungal growth in 79% of specimens tested. Apply a paste of baking soda and water directly to the affected nail and let it sit for at least 10 minutes before rinsing.
If home remedies are not effective, there are some medicines that can be used to treat nail fungus. Antifungal pills and topical medicines can be used in combination to clear the infection. In severe cases, your dermatologist may recommend removing the nail(s) to get rid of the infection. This can be done nonsurgically by applying a chemical to the nail or surgically.
Researchers are also looking at other potential treatments, including patches, nail lacquers, and gels. With treatment, many people can get rid of nail fungus.
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How common is nail fungus?
Nail fungus is very common, with an estimated 3 to 12% of the population affected. It is more common in older people than in younger people. The big toenails are often affected, with the fungus usually developing at the front or side edge of the nail. It is less common for the infection to start at the base of the nail, which typically happens in people with a severely weakened immune system, such as following a serious illness or organ transplantation.
Nail fungus is caused by microscopic organisms called fungi (the plural of fungus). People can pick up these fungi through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a fungal infection, such as athlete's foot or ringworm on their hands. Walking barefoot in warm, moist areas, such as a pool deck or locker room, is another common way to get a fungal nail infection. Sharing infected nail clippers or towels can also spread the fungus. However, it is not always necessary to catch it from someone else; frequently moist nails or wearing sweaty socks and shoes can also lead to nail fungus.
Toenail fungus is particularly challenging to treat because the fungi causing the infection live underneath the toenail. The fungi absorb nutrients from the toenail matrix, and treatment generally takes a long time due to the slow growth of toenails. Polishes, creams, and tablets can be used to treat nail fungus, but it can be hard to get rid of.
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Frequently asked questions
Nail fungus is a fungal nail infection caused by tiny, microscopic organisms called fungi.
Nail fungus is often spread through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a fungal infection, such as athlete's foot or ringworm. It can also be contracted by walking barefoot in a warm, moist area, such as a pool deck or locker room, or by sharing infected nail clippers or towels.
The symptoms of nail fungus can vary but often include discolouration of the nail, such as white, yellow, green, or black spots. The nail may also thicken and become difficult to trim, and it may start to curl or loosen from the nail bed.
Nail fungus is quite common, and many people develop a fungal nail infection at some point in their lives. It is more common in toenails than fingernails.
Nail fungus is usually not serious, but it can be unpleasant and difficult to treat. It is important to seek medical advice if you suspect you have a fungal nail infection.
