Toe nail fungus (medically known as onychomycosis) is a common condition that affects the appearance and health of nails. While it may seem like a cosmetic issue, toenail fungus can cause discomfort and, in severe cases, lead to complications.
At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, our team is here to help you address issues like toenail fungus with expert care and advanced treatment options. If you’re struggling with an infected nail, contact us today to schedule an appointment!
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Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that invades the nail bed, causing nails to become brittle, thickened, or discolored. Nail fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making feet a prime target, especially when enclosed in shoes for long hours. Left untreated, fungal nail infections can spread to other nails and surrounding skin, causing further discomfort.
Toenail fungus can develop due to several factors, including:
Yes, toenail fungus is contagious and can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces, such as communal showers or floors. Fungal infections can also spread within your household if infected nail clippings or tools are not properly handled. Taking precautions, like wearing sandals in shared spaces, can help prevent toenail fungus and other foot and ankle conditions from spreading.
Common signs of a fungal nail infection include:
If you notice these symptoms, it’s essential to seek diagnosis and treatment to prevent the condition from worsening.
Diagnosing toenail fungus often involves a clinical examination of the infected nail. However, only about 50% of abnormal nails are fungal in nature. In some cases, a sample of the nail or debris from under the nail bed may be sent to a lab to identify the specific type of fungus. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to choosing the best course of action for treating toenail fungus.
The treatment for toenail fungus depends on the severity of the infection:
Timely treatment is essential to restoring the nail’s health and preventing further complications.
With proper care and treatment, most cases of toenail fungus can be effectively managed. While some infections clear up within weeks, others may take months to fully resolve due to the slow growth of toenails. It’s important to follow your treatment plan to achieve the best outcome.
Preventing toenail fungus requires consistent hygiene and smart practices, such as:
By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the chances of developing a fungal infection.
If you’re dealing with toenail fungus or any other concerns affecting your nails or feet, Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus is here to help. Our team offers personalized treatment options, from advanced laser treatments to expert advice on preventing future fungal infections. Learn more about other conditions including athlete’s foot with us. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthier nails!
Medically reviewed by Sarah Abshier, DPM, CWS
Toenail fungus can develop from exposure to damp environments, nail injuries, tight shoes, poor foot hygiene, or contaminated nail salon tools.
Yes. Toenail fungus can spread through direct contact and shared surfaces, including communal showers and floors. It can also spread within a household through infected nail clippings or contaminated tools.
Common signs include white, yellow, or brown nail discoloration, thickened or brittle nails, crumbling around the edges, changes in nail shape, and a foul odor.
Diagnosis usually involves examining the affected nail. Because only about half of abnormal-looking nails are caused by fungus, a nail or nail-bed sample may sometimes be sent to a laboratory to identify the infection.
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and may include topical antifungal treatments, oral medications, laser treatment, or nail removal. Non-surgical nail removal may also be an option in some cases.
