Fungal infection of the nail is often ignored because the infection can be present for years without causing any pain. The disease is characterized by a progressive change in a toenail's quality and color, which is often ugly and embarrassing.

In reality, the condition is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. When the tiny organisms take hold, the nail often becomes darker in color and foul smelling. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate, white marks frequently appear on the nail plate, and the infection is capable of spreading to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails.

If ignored, the infection can spread and possibly impair one's ability to work or even walk. This happens because the resulting thicker nails are difficult to trim and make walking painful when wearing shoes. Fungal nail can also be accompanied by a secondary bacterial or yeast infection in or about the nail plate.

Causes of Fungal Nails:

• Exposure to damp areas where people are likely to be walking barefoot, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers.
• Injury to the nail bed may make it more susceptible to all types of infection, including fungal infection.
• Those who suffer from chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails.
• Other contributing factors may be a history of athlete's foot and excessive perspiration.

Prevention:

• Proper hygiene and regular inspection of the feet and toes are the first lines of defense against fungal nails.
• Clean and dry feet resist disease.
• Washing the feet with soap and water, remembering to dry thoroughly, is the best way to prevent an infection.
• Shower shoes should be worn when possible in public areas.
• Shoes, socks, or hosiery should be changed more than once daily.
• Wear shoes that fit well and are made of materials that breathe.
• Avoid wearing excessively tight hosiery, which promote moisture.
• Socks made of synthetic fiber tend to "wick" away moisture faster than cotton or wool socks.
• Disinfect instruments used to cut nails.
• Disinfect home pedicure tools.
• Don't apply polish to nails suspected of infection—those that are red, discolored, or swollen, for example.

Treatment of Fungal Nails

Treatments may vary, depending on the nature and severity of the infection. A daily routine of cleansing over a period of many months may temporarily suppress mild infections. White markings that appear on the surface of the nail can be filed off, followed by the application of an over-the-counter liquid antifungal agent. However, even the best over-the-counter treatments may not prevent a fungal infection from coming back.

Your FDFAC physician can detect a fungal infection early, determine the cause, and form a suitable treatment plan which may include:

• Medication – There are currently topical and oral medications available. Newer oral antifungals, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, may be the most effective treatment. They offer a shorter treatment regimen of approximately three months and improved effectiveness.
• Nail Debridement - Removal of diseased nail matter and debris associated with an infected nail on a regular basis can expedite treatment and reduce recurrence.