Nail fungus is a common condition that begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. Fungal nail infections are caused by various fungal organisms (fungi) but the most common cause is a type of fungus called dermatophyte. Yeast and molds also can cause nail infections. Nail fungus is also called onychomycosis (on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis).
Fungal nail infection can develop in people at any age, but it’s more common in older adults. As the nail ages, it can become brittle and dry. The resulting cracks in the nails allow fungi to enter. Other factors such as reduced blood circulation to the feet and a weakened immune system may also play a role. It is uncommon to get an infection from someone else.
Symptoms: You may have nail fungus if one or more of your nails are:
- Thickened
- Whitish to yellow-brown discoloration
- Brittle, crumbly or ragged
- Distorted in shape
- Smelling slightly foul
Nail fungus can affect fingernails, but it’s more common in toenails.
Risk factors: Factors that can increase your risk of developing nail fungus include:
- Being older, owing to reduced blood flow, more years of exposure to fungi and slower growing nails
- Sweating heavily
- Having a history of athlete’s foot
- Walking barefoot in damp communal areas, such as swimming pools, gyms and shower rooms
FOUR WAYS TO PREVENT NAIL FUNGUS: Here are the four easy ways you can prevent nail fungus:
1. Wash your hands and feet regularly. Wash your hands after touching an infected nail. Moisturize your nails after washing
2. Trim nails straight across, smooth the edges with a file and file down thickened areas. Disinfect your nail clippers after each use.
3. Wear sweat-absorbing socks or change your socks throughout the day.
4. Give up nail polish and artificial nails.
Don’t share towels if someone else in your family has nail fungus. This will pass around the infection. See your doctor if you think you have nail fungus. You may need a prescription to treat it, whether that means taking a medicine by mouth or using a special cream. In severe cases, your nail may need to be removed so a healthy new one can grow in its place. Doctors can also use lasers to treat nail fungus.
