Changes in the appearance of toenails often develop slowly and may be easy to ignore at first. A fungal infection can begin when organisms enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. Warm, moist environments, tight shoes, nail injuries, and reduced circulation increase risk. Common signs include thickening, discoloration that appears yellow, white, or brown, crumbling edges, and nails that lift from the nail bed. Some people also notice odor or discomfort when wearing shoes. Treatment depends on severity and nail involvement. Options include prescription topical medication, oral therapy, or advanced treatments designed to target infection within the nail. Because nails grow slowly, improvement takes time and consistency. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can confirm the diagnosis, rule out other nail conditions, and recommend an effective plan to restore healthier nail growth and reduce the chance of spread to other nails or skin.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
