Nail fungus is a common infection that can affect your fingernails or your toenails. But, most often, it occurs on the toenails.
But, do nail fungus hurt? That’s what we’ll be exploring in this article. We’ll also discuss the symptoms of nail fungus, potential complications, and the treatments that are available.
It’s important to seek professional medical advice if you suspect you have nail fungus. Other conditions can look similar to nail fungus, and some of these conditions can have serious health consequences if they are not treated. Similarly, untreated nail fungus can lead to more serious complications.
Signs and symptoms of fungal infection
So, does nail fungus hurt? Here’s what to look for.
Visual changes to the nail
Nail fungus can cause nails to look yellow, brown, or white. For more information, see discolored toenails pictures and solutions. The nail may also get thicker and more brittle, which can make it easier to break or crack.
Changes in nail shape
Nails can also become distorted and lift away from the nail bed. This is called onycholysis. The edges of the nail may crumble or look ragged.
Physical discomfort
Nail fungus doesn’t always hurt, but it can be uncomfortable, especially when you apply pressure to it. It can become more painful as the infection gets worse.
Other sensations
You might also have itching, inflammation, or a foul odor associated with the infection.
What causes nail fungus?
Fungi are everywhere, and nail fungus is usually caused by microscopic organisms called dermatophytes. Yeasts and molds can also cause nail infections.
These infections are contagious, so they can spread by direct contact with an infected surface or person. That’s why it’s important to be extra careful about hygiene if you think you’ve been exposed to nail fungus.
Risk factors
Warm, moist places are breeding grounds for fungi. So, locker rooms, swimming pools, and public showers can be sources of nail fungus. Sweaty feet and tight-fitting shoes also create an environment where fungus thrives.
Certain health conditions also increase the risk of getting nail fungus, including:
- nail injuries
- diabetes
- weakened immune systems
- poor circulation
Older adults are more prone to nail fungus because their immunity and circulation tend to decrease with age.
What happens if you don’t treat nail fungus?
Nail fungus isn’t just a cosmetic issue. Untreated nail fungus can lead to some tough complications.
Spread of infection
That fungus can travel. It can easily spread to your other nails on the same foot and eventually make its way to your other foot.
And it’s not just your nails you need to worry about. The fungus can also spread to the skin on your feet, causing athlete’s foot. And from there, it could even spread to your groin area, causing jock itch.
Secondary infections
Things can get even worse. Untreated nail fungus can open the door for secondary bacterial infections, like cellulitis and abscesses. In really severe cases, there’s even a risk of septicemia (blood poisoning).
Beyond that, severe nail fungus can cause significant pain, making it hard to walk or even wear shoes. That pain can really affect your quality of life and make it tough to do everyday activities.
Nail damage and deformity
If you let nail fungus go on for too long, it can lead to permanent nail damage or even nail loss. And let’s be honest, disfigured nails can take a toll on your self-esteem and how you interact with others.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If you suspect you have a nail fungus, it’s really important to get it checked out by a professional. Don’t try to diagnose yourself.
Importance of Professional Diagnosis
Nail fungus symptoms can be similar to those of other, more serious conditions, such as warts, pre-cancerous lesions, and even melanoma. A professional medical evaluation is the only way to know for sure what’s going on.
Your doctor will likely use PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing, a genetic test, to identify the exact type of fungus causing the infection. Knowing the specific type of fungus helps your doctor decide on the most effective treatment.
Treatment Options
Once you have a diagnosis, there are several treatment options available.
Topical Antifungal Medications
These are applied directly to the nail, but you can also explore options like using Argan Oil for fungus nails. However, they’re often not very effective for severe infections. Your doctor can explain how to apply them and what side effects to watch out for.
Oral Antifungal Medications
Oral medications like terbinafine and itraconazole tend to be more effective than topical treatments. However, they can have side effects, and your doctor will need to monitor your liver function while you’re taking them.
Other Treatments
In severe cases, your doctor might recommend nail avulsion, which is the surgical removal of the nail. Laser therapy is another option that’s becoming more popular. Learn more about the best laser treatment for nail fungus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
Generally, it’s a good idea to wear clean, breathable cotton socks to bed if you have toenail fungus. This helps absorb moisture, which fungus thrives on. Change your socks daily and consider using antifungal powder in your shoes during the day to keep your feet dry.
What is the number one cure for toenail fungus?
There’s no single “number one” cure that works for everyone. Oral antifungal medications prescribed by a doctor are often considered the most effective, but they can have potential side effects. Topical treatments are less effective but have fewer side effects. The best treatment depends on the severity of the infection and individual factors.
What happens if you touch nail fungus?
Touching nail fungus doesn’t automatically mean you’ll get infected. However, it does increase your risk, especially if you have broken skin or a weakened immune system. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching an infected nail to minimize the risk of spreading the fungus.
Can nail fungus cause pain?
Yes, nail fungus can definitely cause pain, especially if the infection is severe. As the fungus progresses, the nail can thicken, become deformed, and press against the surrounding skin, leading to discomfort and pain. In some cases, it can even make it difficult to wear shoes or walk comfortably.
What kills nail fungus the fastest?
Oral antifungal medications typically work the fastest, often clearing the infection in several months. Laser treatments can also be effective. However, complete eradication can take time because the new, healthy nail needs to grow out to replace the infected part. Be patient and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Closing Thoughts
Nail fungus might not always be super painful, but it can definitely be uncomfortable. If you don’t treat it, it can cause serious problems. If your nail is discolored, thick, or brittle, you might have nail fungus. It’s often caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist places, and it can spread if you don’t take care of it.
If you think you might have nail fungus, talk to your doctor or a podiatrist. They can diagnose it and prescribe antifungal medication, which is usually needed to get rid of the infection.