Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects nails, causing them to turn yellow and become brittle. It is most common in toes and can be caused by exposure to fungi in warm and humid environments. Treatment involves taking oral antifungal medications prescribed by a doctor for six to twelve weeks. Diabetics are at higher risk and should seek medical attention promptly. Keeping feet clean and dry can help prevent the condition.
Onychomycosis refers to fungal infections found in the fingernails or toenails. It can be called ringworm of the nails and most commonly affects the toes. The condition causes the nail to turn yellow, and the nail may appear opaque instead of transparent. Onychomycosis can also damage the integrity of the affected nails and they can break or crumble easily. Usually, this fungal infection doesn’t cause nail pain, but it feels painful and is fairly easy to notice. In very severe cases, the nails can be painful.
There are many fungi found in many human environments that can cause onychomycosis. It’s not always clear why some people develop reactions to these mushrooms while others don’t, especially when exposure is the same. One factor that can particularly favor the growth of these special fungi that attack the nails, called dermatophytes, is a warm and humid environment. If your feet are constantly sweaty and you wear heavy shoes, you could encourage the growth of dermatophytes, to the point of creating onychomycosis.
Treatment for this condition can be challenging, but usually involves taking oral antifungal medications prescribed by your doctor. You usually have to take these medicines for a long time, six to twelve weeks, and the affected nails may not seem completely healed at first. In fact, until new nail growth occurs and a completely new nail is in place, there may still be brittle, yellowed or cloudy nails. It can help to cut your nails short, but not too short so they show less discoloration.
If you suspect that you have onychomycosis, you shouldn’t put off seeing your doctor. This condition is not like other fungal infections that can usually be treated with over-the-counter antifungal ointments. Unless contraindicated, prescribed antifungal drugs are the best method of treatment and are more likely to lead to a cure.
It is especially important to see a doctor right away if you have diabetes and notice onychomycosis on your feet. Diabetics need to pay special attention to foot care and are much more at risk of devastating foot infections. If you seem prone to developing fungal infections on your feet, using moisture-wicking socks can help, to keep your nails trimmed and clean, and to make sure they dry between your fingers and toes after a bath and shower. In particular, make sure your feet are completely dry before putting on socks and shoes.
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