What Is a Fungal Nail Infection?
A fungal nail infection is a common condition that can leave you with brittle, discolored nails, usually on your toes.
Fungi are tiny organisms you can only see through a microscope. Many different types can cause a nail infection. Sometimes they live on your skin and don’t make any trouble. But if you have a lot in one area, you might get infected.
Fungal Nail Infection Causes.
- You get an infection when a crack in your nail or the skin around it allows fungus to get inside and grow.
Since fungus thrives in dark, warm places, your toenails are more likely to be affected than your fingernails. Your toes also have less blood flow than your fingers, which makes it harder for your body to pick up on and prevent an infection.
You’re more likely to get a fungal nail infection if you: - Are a man
- Are older, since nails become more brittle and likely to crack as you age.
- Have a weak immune system or ongoing health problems like diabetes.
- Wear shoes that make your feet hot and sweaty.
- Walk barefoot through gym showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms –places where fungus spreads easily.
- Live with someone who has a fungal infection.
- Have athlete’s foot, as the fungus that causes it can spread to your nails.
- Recently had an injury or surgery on your nail, or had a previous infection.
- Wear plastic gloves or keep your hands wet for long periods.
Fungal Nail Infection Treatment
See your doctor if you think you have nail fungus. It can be tough to get rid of, and you’re more likely to have success with a prescription. Treatments include:
1.Oral antifungals.
The doctor may give you a pill to kill fungus in your whole body. This is usually the best way to get rid of a nail infection. Treatment may last 2 months for an infection in your fingernails, or 3 months if it’s in your toenails.
2.Topical antifungals.
You rub or brush these medicines onto your nails. They may work for a mild infection, but they can’t get deep enough into the nail to cure a more serious one. You might use a topical treatment in combination with a pill.
3.Surgery.
If other treatments don’t work, the doctor may need to remove your nail entirely and let a healthy one grow back in its place. The new nail could also get infected.