Toenail fungus is a common nuisance. It can be unsightly, uncomfortable, and persistent. Because it’s an infection, a healthy immune system can usually fight it off.
When your immune system is weakened, you become more vulnerable to infections, including toenail fungus. But what about autoimmune diseases? Do they make you more likely to get toenail fungus?
This article explores the link between autoimmune disease, a weakened immune system, and toenail fungus. We’ll also review some available treatments.
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of the nail.
If you have it, you might notice symptoms such as:
- discoloration
- thickening
- brittleness
As you get older, your risk of toenail fungus goes up. In fact, about half of all people over the age of 70 have toenail fungus.
People with diabetes are also at an increased risk. You’re about twice as likely to get toenail fungus if you have diabetes.
A weakened immune system can also make you more vulnerable to toenail fungus.
The link between autoimmune diseases and toenail fungus
Autoimmune diseases happen when your immune system goes haywire and starts attacking healthy cells in your body. Some autoimmune diseases, and the medications people take to treat them, can make it harder for your body to fight off infections, including toenail fungus.
How autoimmune diseases affect the immune system
When you have an autoimmune disease, your body’s defense system mistakenly attacks your own tissues. Plus, some of the drugs used to treat autoimmune diseases weaken your immune system even further.
Autoimmune diseases and nail health
We know there’s a link between diabetes (an autoimmune disease) and nail fungus. But other autoimmune conditions, such as alopecia, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, psoriatic arthritis, and lupus, can also affect your nails.
For example, each of these conditions can cause nail abnormalities:
- Alopecia can cause nail pitting.
- Hashimoto’s can cause brittle nails.
- Psoriatic arthritis can cause nail thickening or discoloration.
- Lupus can cause nail bed inflammation.
Diagnosis and treatment options
It’s important to get a diagnosis and begin treatment as soon as you suspect you have nail fungus.
The sooner you start treatment, the easier it will be to get rid of the fungus.
How toenail fungus is diagnosed
Here’s what you can expect at the doctor’s office:
- Visual examination: The doctor will examine your nail.
- Laboratory testing: Your doctor may clip off a small piece of your nail and send it to a lab to confirm whether it is fungus and what kind of fungus is present.
Treatment options
Once you have a diagnosis, you and your doctor can talk about treatment options for toenail fungus. Here are some of the treatments doctors use for toenail fungus:
- Topical medications: You can buy some antifungal creams and ointments over the counter. Your doctor can also prescribe stronger versions.
- Oral medications: The doctor can prescribe antifungal pills. Be sure to talk about the potential side effects of these medications before you take them.
- Laser treatment: Q-Clear™ laser treatment is a safe and effective option for many people. Studies have shown significant improvement in 95% of patients, with no side effects.
- KeryFlex® resin: KeryFlex® can improve the way your nails look while you’re undergoing treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
Complete eradication of toenail fungus can be tricky. Prescription oral antifungal medications are often the most effective, but they come with potential side effects. Topical treatments can work for mild cases, but require consistent application for a long time. Laser therapy is another option, but its long-term success varies.
Why do I suddenly have toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus often develops due to exposure to damp environments like public showers or swimming pools. Injury to the nail, poor foot hygiene, tight shoes, and weakened immunity can also increase your risk. Sometimes, it can be a sign of an underlying health issue.
What medical condition does toenail fungus indicate?
While toenail fungus itself isn’t usually indicative of a serious medical condition, it can sometimes be associated with diabetes, psoriasis, or circulatory problems. If you have recurring or severe toenail fungus, it’s a good idea to consult with your doctor to rule out any underlying health concerns.
What autoimmune disease causes nail fungus?
Psoriasis, an autoimmune disease, can cause nail changes that mimic fungal infections, including thickening, discoloration, and separation from the nail bed. It is important to differentiate between the two, as psoriasis requires a different treatment approach.
What autoimmune disease causes fungus?
Autoimmune diseases don’t directly cause fungal infections. However, some autoimmune conditions or the medications used to treat them can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to fungal infections, including those affecting the nails. Certain medications used to suppress the immune system may increase this risk.
Closing Thoughts
Autoimmune diseases can weaken your immune system, making you more vulnerable to toenail fungus. It’s important to address nail problems early. If you notice any changes to your toenails, reach out to a podiatrist or foot care specialist for help.
If you have diabetes or an autoimmune condition, pay special attention to your feet and take extra care of them. Addressing issues early can help prevent bigger problems later.