One of the major toe ailments that affect a large number of Americans is Onychomycosis, which is commonly known as Toenails fungus. It is rare with children, and the incidence grows with age. Essentially, this kind of fungal infection is caused by entrance of microscopic fungi through the small injuries in the nails. Gradually, the fungus starts growing and proliferates in the warm moist conditions inside the shoes and shocks of the patient.
Such fungal infections are not only restricted to the toenails, rather they can also grow on the fingernails as well. However, it is hard to treat the toenails, since they grow slowly. Usually, this kind of infection occurs on the big or small toe; however, it might affect any toe.
Symptoms
As there are different types of fungi, the symptom of toenail fungus varies. Some of the common symptoms include yellowing, thickening, swelling or crumbling of the nail plate, and streaks or spots down the side of the nail. However, in certain cases it causes complete loss of nail. The color of toenail may vary from yellow to brown or in some cases white depending upon the conditions. Usually the nails appear to be flaky and rough. In some case, the nails are separated from the nail bed. However, the symptoms are not associated with pain unless the case is serious.
Classification
Onychomycosis can be classified into the following:
Distal Subungual Onychomycosis - It is common type of Onychomycosis, caused by Trichophyton rubrum. It attacks the underside of the nail plate as well as the nail bed.
White Superficial Onychomycosis - This kind of a fungal infection invades the superficial layer of the nail plate that gives rise to "white islands" on the plate. However, this kind of onychomycosis cases is quite rare.
Candidal Onychomycosis - This type of Onychomycosis is common with those who often immerse their hands in water. Such fungal infections are followed by damage or trauma.
Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis - It essentially involves infiltration of newly found nail plate through the proximal nail fold. This rarely affects healthy people; however, the immuno-compromised patients are most likely to suffer from this form of tinea unguium.
Total Dystrophic Onychomycosis - This is a serious case, in which the nail plate is completely destroyed. This is ultimate affect followed by the above.
Diagnosis
As the toenail fungus grows uncomfortable, you should seek medical help. Get the toenails examined by a doctor. He would collect small samples from your toenails for examination. The sample is examined under microscope to detect the presence of fungi or any other infection. If the results are positive, you should immediately look for a proper treatment.
Treatment
In most cases, Toenail fungus becomes a chronic condition and not painful then it is not necessary to get the treatment. However, if the nail becomes thick, and it is difficult to walk or wear shoes then go and see a doctor immediately. In case, the infection is mild and localized, your doctor might prescribe a medicated nail polish with ciclopirox or amorolfine. However, for a persistent infection, which continues for long, the doctor, would prescribe an oral, systemic antifungal medication such as terbinafine or itraconazole. In case of extremely persistent infection, you would have to undergo for permanent surgical removal of the nail.
Visit your podiatrist for more information and treatment options.
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Dr. Maasi J. Smith
MyBadFeet.com
