What is a Fungal Toenail?
A fungal toenail, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that occurs when a fungus infects the area under the nail. This can cause the nail to become discolored, thickened, and brittle.
Symptoms of Fungal Toenail
The symptoms of a fungal toenail include:
- Thickened nails that can be difficult to cut.
- Discoloration of the nail, usually white, yellow, or brown.
- Distorted nail shape, such as a nail that is ragged, brittle, or crumbling.
- A foul smell coming from the infected nail.
Diagnosing Fungal Toenail
Diagnosis of a fungal toenail typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional. They may take a small sample of the nail to be tested in a lab for the presence of fungus.
Possible Treatments for Fungal Toenail
There are several treatment options for fungal toenails:
- Topical treatments: These include antifungal creams or nail polish that are applied directly to the nail.
- Oral antifungal medications: These are often prescribed for more severe infections.
- Laser therapy: This is a newer treatment option that uses laser light to kill the fungus under the nail.
Next Steps
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a fungal toenail, it’s important to seek professional help. At Sharma Foot & Ankle Specialist, we’re dedicated to providing personalized care for your foot and ankle needs.
Don’t let foot discomfort hold you back. Reach out and make an appointment with us today. Your feet will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) develops when a fungus infects the area under the nail. As the infection takes hold, the nail can become discolored, thickened, and brittle. A podiatrist can confirm the cause by examining the nail and, if needed, sending a small nail sample to a lab to test for fungus.
What are the symptoms of a fungal toenail?
Common signs include thickened nails that are hard to cut and discoloration that is usually white, yellow, or brown. The nail may also become distorted in shape — ragged, brittle, or crumbling — and the infected nail can give off a foul smell. If you notice these changes, it is worth having the nail evaluated.
How do you get rid of toenail fungus?
Treatment depends on how severe the infection is. Options include topical antifungal creams or medicated nail polish applied directly to the nail, oral antifungal medications that are often prescribed for more severe infections, and laser therapy, a newer approach that uses laser light to target the fungus under the nail. A podiatrist can help determine which option fits your situation.
What kills toenail fungus instantly?
There is no treatment that eliminates toenail fungus instantly, since the nail grows out slowly and the infection sits beneath it. Topical treatments, oral antifungal medications, and laser therapy can each work to clear the fungus over time, but visible improvement typically follows as the healthy nail grows in. A podiatrist can recommend the most appropriate approach for your infection.
How is a fungal toenail diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually starts with a physical examination of the nail by a healthcare professional. To confirm that fungus is present, they may take a small sample of the nail and send it to a lab for testing. This helps guide the right treatment, since other conditions can look similar to a fungal infection.
When should I see a podiatrist for fungal toenail (onychomycosis)?
If you have thickened, discolored, distorted, or foul-smelling nails, it is a good idea to seek professional help rather than wait for the infection to spread. At Sharma Foot & Ankle Specialist in Plano, TX, our team provides personalized care and can diagnose and treat fungal toenails with options ranging from topical and oral antifungals to laser therapy. You can book an appointment online to get started.