Fungal Toenail Infections – Identifying, Prevention and Treatment

Onchomycosis or commonly known as a fungal nail infection occurs if a fungus grows underneath or around the nail. This results to darkening, thickening and/or discoloration of the nail. Compared to finger nails, toenails are much more susceptible to this condition. This is because the feet are almost always enclosed in shoes.  The toenails are confined in a dark and moist environment highly ideal for fungus growth. Toenails also have less blood flow because of their location impeding the body’s immune system from identifying the start of fungal infection.

What is a Fungus?

A fungus is a microscopic organism that does not need sunlight to survive. These fungi live in warm, moist and dark environments which can also be a good description of our shoes.

Who are most susceptible to fungal nail infection?

Men and the elderly are more likely to a fungal nail infection. People who have diminished blood circulation (diabetics), suffer from heavy perspiration, work at humid or moist environments, walk barefoot in moist public places and wear foot wear that inhibit ventilation are more susceptible to fungal nail infection. It can also be acquired through genetics or if a person is immuno-suppressed.

How to prevent, diagnose and treat fungal nail infection?

Proper hygiene is the essential to preventing a person from acquiring fungal nail infection. We should always make sure that our feet and hands remain clean and dry. People should also ask the parlors that do manicure and pedicure work if their tools are being sterilized after each use.

Diagnosis of a fungal nail infection should be done by a podiatrist. Podiatrist are highly qualified in detecting a fungal nail infection, culturing the nail, determining what kind of fungus causes it and implementing a treatment plan for the patient. It is important to consult a foot specialists first before taking any medication.

It is highly recommended to consult a podiatrist as soon as possible because the diagnosis and treatment for fungal nail infection can take time. Treatment may vary from one patient to another because of the different types of fungi that can cause the infection.

Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.