Fungal nail infections cause changes in nail appearance, including thickening, discoloration, cracking, peeling, and brittleness. Early treatment is important, as infections can spread and take months to eliminate. Prevention includes keeping feet clean and dry and wearing well-fitting shoes.
The most common symptoms of a fungal nail infection include changes in the physical appearance of the nail itself. This can mean that the nail becomes thick or brittle, discolored, or begins to crack, peel or flake. Symptoms can vary for different types of fungal infections, but any type of fungal nail infection will cause noticeable changes to at least one nail, if not the surrounding nails. The infection typically starts very small on the tip of the nail and then gets worse over time, until the entire nail becomes infected.
A fungal nail infection is usually indicated first by small white or yellow spots on the nail or just below the tip of the nail. If the infection is caught at this early stage, it is much easier to treat and get rid of it; otherwise, treating fungal infections can take months before they are completely eliminated. Most people don’t notice these infections early enough, however, and the fungal nail infection will continue to spread. Nail discoloration is one of the first symptoms, followed by a change in physical appearance or texture. The nail typically becomes darker or yellowed and may look duller and just plain unhealthy.
Most commonly, a fungal nail infection causes the nail to thicken and become more difficult to cut; it can also become brittle with jagged edges. Some people also find that their nails will develop cracks or begin to flake and peel. While pain is not commonly associated with fungal nail infections, it can occur, particularly because some fungal infections cause the toenail to start separating from the skin or even fall off. Some people also notice a slight odor or that the surrounding skin has also become red and flaky.
It’s important to treat a fungal nail infection to make sure it doesn’t get worse or spread to other nails. topical and oral medications are available, as well as some home treatments that some people find effective, such as dipping the nail in white vinegar. The best way to prevent a fungal nail infection is to keep your feet clean and dry and to wear shoes that fit well and don’t restrict movement. This is healthy for your feet too, not just your toes, as fungal infections like athlete’s foot are also more likely to occur in damp, dark environments.
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