Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that can affect your fingernails or toenails. You might have a nail fungus if you notice that one or more of your nails is discolored, thickened, or brittle.
This article provides information about nail fungus, including its causes, symptoms, and prevention. We’ll also touch on potential complications of severe nail fungus infections, and how those complications may impact other areas of your health.
In particular, we will explore the connection between nail fungus and liver disease.
What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common infection of the nails. It can affect both fingernails and toenails, but it’s more common in toenails, just because of the environment that feet are in.
Nail fungus may occur if you:
- wear shoes that cause your feet to sweat a lot
- have a minor skin or nail injury
- have diabetes, athlete’s foot, a weakened immune system, or other conditions
Other conditions can look like nail fungus, so it’s important to see a healthcare professional for a diagnosis.
If you’re diagnosed with nail fungus, your doctor will likely:
- take a look at your overall health
- ask about any medications you take
- consider whether you have any other conditions
Symptoms and when to seek medical attention
Nail fungus isn’t usually painful, but it can be unsightly and even a little embarrassing.
Common symptoms of nail fungus
Nail fungus can cause, among other things, yellow toenails:
- thickening of the nail
- discoloration (yellowish-brown or whitish)
- brittleness, crumbling, or ragged edges
- distortion of the nail’s shape
- separation of the nail from the nail bed
- a foul odor
It’s important to catch nail fungus early, before it becomes more difficult to treat.
When to see a doctor
You should see a doctor for nail fungus if:
- your symptoms don’t improve with home treatment
- you experience pain or discomfort
- the infection spreads to other nails or skin
- you have diabetes or a weakened immune system
What causes nail fungus?
Nail fungus happens when microscopic fungal organisms infect one or more of your nails. These organisms include:
- dermatophytes
- yeasts
- molds
All of these tiny creatures can invade your nails through small cracks or openings. Once they’re in place, they can cause an infection. They feed on the keratin that makes up your nails, causing them to change in appearance.
Risk factors
Some things make it more likely that you’ll get a nail infection. They include:
- being older
- sweating a lot
- wearing sweaty shoes or socks
- having athlete’s foot
- frequenting damp public places like swimming pools or gym showers
- having minor skin or nail injuries
- having psoriasis, diabetes, or a weakened immune system
All of these factors either expose you to more fungus or make it easier for the fungus to make its way into your nail.
Potential complications of untreated nail fungus
Nail fungus might not seem like a big deal, but ignoring it can lead to some serious problems. If you let it go, the fungus can cause:
- Pain and discomfort in your toes or fingers
- Permanent damage to your nails
- Secondary bacterial infections (because the fungus weakens your nail, making it more vulnerable)
- The infection spreading to other parts of your body
That’s why it’s important to get nail fungus treated sooner rather than later to avoid these complications.
Prevention strategies
Preventing nail fungus is much easier than getting rid of it. Here are some things you can do to avoid contracting nail fungus in the first place.
Good nail hygiene
It’s important to keep your nails clean and dry. Wash your hands and feet regularly, and dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes.
Also, use proper nail-trimming techniques. Trim your nails straight across, smooth the edges with a file, and file down any thickened areas.
Lifestyle and environmental factors
You can also protect your nails by making sure to wear appropriate footwear. Choose shoes that allow your feet to breathe, and wear absorbent socks that you change regularly. Also, wear footwear in public areas like pools and locker rooms.
Don’t share personal items, and be sure to disinfect nail tools after each use.
Other preventative measures
If you have athlete’s foot, treat it promptly with antifungal products, and explore options to fight toenail fungus.
And though it may be hard to hear, it’s best to give up nail polish and artificial nails, which can trap moisture and create an environment where fungus thrives, however, there are ways to avoid nail fungus even when using press ons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vitamin deficiency causes nail fungus?
While no single vitamin deficiency directly causes nail fungus, deficiencies in certain nutrients like biotin, iron, and zinc can weaken the immune system and potentially increase susceptibility to fungal infections. Maintaining a balanced diet is always a good idea for overall health.
Why do I suddenly have toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus can appear suddenly due to various factors. Exposure to warm, moist environments (like sweaty shoes), minor nail injuries, poor hygiene, or a weakened immune system can all contribute. It’s often a gradual process, but you might only notice it once it becomes more visible.
Does liver disease cause toenail fungus?
Liver disease itself doesn’t directly cause toenail fungus. However, certain liver conditions can weaken the immune system, making someone more vulnerable to infections, including fungal nail infections. Medications used to treat liver disease can also sometimes contribute.
How to tell if your liver is struggling?
Symptoms of a struggling liver can be subtle, but some common signs include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, swelling in the legs and ankles, dark urine, pale stool, and easy bruising. If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor for evaluation.
What is the best drink to flush your liver?
There’s no magic drink that “flushes” the liver. The liver is a self-cleaning organ. However, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is essential for liver health. Some studies suggest that coffee and green tea may also have beneficial effects on the liver.
In Closing
Nail fungus is a common infection that can be difficult to treat, and some oral medications used to treat it can cause liver damage, especially if you already have liver problems. Good hygiene, proper nail care, and avoiding trauma to the nails can help prevent fungal infections.
If you think you have a nail fungus, it’s important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and talk about your treatment options. They can check your liver function and help you choose a treatment that’s safe and effective for you.
Taking care of your nails is an important part of your overall health, so be sure to practice good hygiene and seek medical attention if you notice any changes in your nails.