Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, are a common condition that can affect both your fingernails and toenails. In fact, experts estimate that fungal infections are the cause of almost half of all nail problems.
If you suspect you have a fungal infection of your fingernails, this article can help. We’ll show you some fingernail fungus photos and describe some of the symptoms, causes, and treatments for this condition.
Early detection and treatment are important to prevent complications and keep the infection from spreading. The sooner you get treatment for fingernail fungus, the sooner you can say goodbye to those unsightly nails!
Understanding Fingernail Fungus
Fingernail fungus can be unsightly and even painful. Here’s what you should know.
What is Onychomycosis?
Onychomycosis is the medical term for a fungal infection of the nail. It can be caused by different kinds of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.
Who is at Risk?
Fingernail fungus is more common in older adults and in men.
You may be at higher risk if you have:
- Diabetes
- A condition that weakens your immune system
- Eczema
- Athlete’s foot
- Psoriasis
Other risk factors include:
- Wearing sweaty shoes
- Spending time in damp public spaces
- Having a minor skin or nail injury
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
Fingernail fungus often starts slowly, and you may not even notice it at first. It’s usually not painful in the early stages.
Common signs and symptoms of fingernail fungus include:
- Thickening of the nail: The affected nail will appear thicker than your other nails.
- Discoloration: You might notice yellowing or whitish spots on the nail.
- Brittleness: The nail may become brittle, crumble, or have ragged edges.
- Misshapen nails: The nail’s shape may become distorted.
- Onycholysis: This is when the nail separates from the nail bed.
- Possible odor: In some cases, there might be an unpleasant odor.
If left untreated, a severe case of fingernail fungus can cause pain and even permanent damage to the nail.
What are the treatments for fingernail fungus?
Whether your nail fungus is mild, moderate, or severe, there are treatments available, but what works instead of acetone? Some are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from your doctor.
Over-the-counter treatments
If you have a mild case of nail fungus, you might try an over-the-counter option, such as Kerasal nail patches or urea cream, but is Listerine worth trying?
Prescription treatments
If your nail fungus doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments, you might need a prescription medication. Your doctor may prescribe a topical antifungal medication, such as ciclopirox nail lacquer or efinaconazole nail solution. These medications are applied directly to the affected nail.
In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal medication, such as terbinafine, itraconazole, or fluconazole. These medications are generally more effective than topical treatments, but they can have side effects and may require blood tests to monitor liver function.
Other treatments
In rare cases, surgical removal of the nail may be necessary.
Keep in mind that nail fungus treatments often take a long time. It can take six to twelve months to get rid of the infection entirely. Even after the infection is gone, your nail may still be discolored or damaged.
Prevention and Self-Care
The best way to deal with nail fungus is to prevent it in the first place. Keeping your nails clean and dry is key. Here are some more tips:
- Keep your nails short and trimmed straight across.
- Wear absorbent socks and breathable shoes so your feet don’t get sweaty.
- Disinfect your nail clippers after each use so you don’t spread any fungus.
- Don’t share personal items like towels or nail clippers with others.
- Treat athlete’s foot right away, because it can easily spread to your toenails.
- Wear shoes in public areas, like locker rooms and swimming pools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does fingernail fungus look like?
Fingernail fungus usually presents with a thickened, discolored (often yellow or white), and brittle nail. You might also see debris building up under the nail. The nail shape can become distorted, and in severe cases, the nail can separate from the nail bed. (Check out the photos above for visual examples!)
What can be mistaken for nail fungus?
Several conditions can mimic nail fungus, including psoriasis, nail trauma, bacterial infections, and even certain skin conditions like eczema affecting the nail bed. A dermatologist can properly diagnose the cause with a nail clipping test.
What is the instant cover up for nail fungus?
While there’s no instant cure, you can temporarily conceal nail fungus with nail polish. Choose a breathable formula and avoid dark colors, which can stain the nail further. This is purely cosmetic and doesn’t treat the underlying infection.
How do I get rid of fungus in my nail?
Treatment options range from topical antifungal medications (for mild cases) to oral antifungal medications (for more severe infections). Your doctor may also recommend nail trimming or filing to improve medication penetration. Patience is key, as treatment can take several months.
How to tell the difference between nail fungus and nail damage?
Nail fungus usually involves discoloration and thickening, while nail damage from trauma often presents as bruising or a lifted nail plate. However, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between the two. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Key Takeaways
If you think you have a fungal nail infection, see your doctor or pharmacist for a diagnosis and treatment plan, or consider Dr. Berg’s approach to nail fungus. You’ll need a referral to a specialist if the infection is severe, has spread to other nails, or if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system. If you notice a problem, don’t wait. Early treatment is key to preventing complications.