Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that can cause your nails to become discolored, thick, and brittle. While many people think of nail fungus as only a cosmetic issue, especially when considering options like nail fungus and polish, it can actually lead to more serious problems if it’s not treated.
There are several different kinds of nail fungus, including mold nail fungus. This article will walk you through symptoms, causes, and treatment options for all kinds of nail fungus, including mold.
Understanding Nail Fungus: Mold, Yeast, and Dermatophytes
Lots of different organisms can lead to nail fungus.
Dermatophytes
Dermatophytes are the most common culprit in nail fungus, responsible for 90 percent of toenail infections and 50 percent of fingernail infections.
These tiny, parasitic fungi thrive in moist environments and feed on keratin, the protein that makes up your nails.
The most common dermatophytes are Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton interdigitale.
Nondermatophyte Molds
Molds such as Aspergillus, Scopulariopsis, and Fusarium can cause nail infections, but they aren’t as common as dermatophytes.
One rare infection related to mold is fungal melanonychia, which can cause nail discoloration.
Yeasts
Yeasts like Candida are another possible cause of nail infections.
Yeast infections are more often found in fingernails than toenails.
How can you tell if you have nail fungus?
Nail fungus is easy to spot. Here are some telltale signs:
- Your nail changes color. It might become whitish-yellow, greenish, or even brown, as can be seen in gel nail fungus pictures.
- Your nail gets thicker.
- Your nail hurts.
- Your nail becomes brittle and crumbly.
- Your nail smells bad.
- Your nail separates from the nail bed.
The most common kind of nail fungus is called distal lateral subungual onychomycosis. It affects the sides and tips of your nails.
Other types of nail fungus are:
- superficial
- endonyx
- proximal subungual
- mixed pattern
- total dystrophic
Causes and Risk Factors
Fungal nail infections are contagious, and you can catch them through skin-to-skin contact or by sharing personal items with someone who has an infection.
You might be more at risk if you:
- Are older
- Wear sweaty shoes
- Have athlete’s foot
- Walk around barefoot in damp public places
- Have a minor nail injury
- Have psoriasis
- Have diabetes
- Have a weakened immune system
Diagnosis and treatment for nail fungus
If you think you have a fungal nail infection, it’s best to see a health professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosis
Your healthcare provider will usually examine your nails. To confirm that you have a fungal infection, they may take a nail sample and send it to a lab for testing. If you have dark spots on your nails, it’s important to get an early diagnosis to rule out subungual melanoma, especially if you have a darker skin tone.
Treatment
There are a variety of treatments for nail fungus, including topical and oral antifungal medications, as well as some home remedies (though the effectiveness of urine as a cure for nail fungus is not proven). Oral medications tend to be more effective, but they can have side effects. Topical medications are an option for mild infections.
Keep in mind that it can take several months of treatment to get rid of a nail fungus.
Prevention and Home Care
The best way to deal with mold nail fungus is to avoid getting it in the first place. A few basic hygiene habits can help you prevent a fungal nail infection:
- Keep your nails clean and dry.
- Trim your nails regularly.
- Wear absorbent socks and breathable shoes.
- Don’t share nail clippers, towels, or socks with other people.
- Wear shoes in public showers and locker rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get rid of nail fungus ASAP?
Unfortunately, there’s no magic bullet for quickly eliminating nail fungus. Even with treatment, it can take several months for the nail to grow out completely and clear the infection. Prescription oral medications and topical antifungals are the most effective options, but patience is key. Consult with your doctor or podiatrist for the best approach.
What happens if you have nail fungus for too long?
If left untreated, nail fungus can worsen, causing the nail to thicken, crumble, and potentially separate from the nail bed. It can also spread to other nails or even the skin surrounding the nail. In severe cases, it can lead to pain and difficulty walking, making proper treatment essential.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
It’s generally a good idea to wear clean, breathable socks to bed if you have toenail fungus. This helps absorb moisture and create a less favorable environment for fungal growth. Opt for cotton or wool socks, and change them daily.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Do NOT attempt to cut off your toenail yourself. This can lead to serious complications, including infection and improper nail regrowth. In rare cases, a doctor may surgically remove a severely infected nail, but this is usually a last resort.
Can you scrape out toenail fungus?
While you can gently file down the surface of the infected nail to help topical medications penetrate better, you shouldn’t attempt to “scrape out” the fungus. This can damage the nail bed and increase the risk of infection. Leave any significant nail trimming or debridement to a qualified professional.
Summary
Nail fungus is common. It can be caused by lots of different types of fungus, including dermatophytes, molds, and yeasts.
Because nail fungus can spread, it’s important to get diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. If you think you have nail fungus, see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
You can prevent nail fungus by practicing good hygiene, wearing shoes in public places, and keeping your nails trimmed and clean.