Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common problem, and it’s not something you should ignore. It’s a fungal infection that can affect your toenails, and sometimes even your fingernails, and it can spread from person to person.
You might think of it as just a cosmetic problem, but ignoring toenail fungus can lead to some pretty serious issues.
This article will explore what happens if toenail fungus is left untreated, so you’ll understand why it’s important to get a diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible.
Understanding toenail fungus
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of one or more of your toenails.
Fungi love warm, moist places like swimming pools, gyms, and locker rooms.
Risk factors and symptoms
Certain things can make you more likely to get toenail fungus, such as:
- being older
- having diabetes or psoriasis
- having had athlete’s foot
If you have toenail fungus, your nails may:
- thicken
- change color
- become brittle
- separate from the nail bed
What happens if toenail fungus is left untreated?
Toenail fungus is an infection that can get worse and cause other problems if you don’t treat it.
Spread of infection
If you don’t treat toenail fungus, it can spread to your other toenails. It can also spread to the skin around your nails, causing athlete’s foot. In more serious cases, the infection can even spread to other parts of your body.
Nail damage and discomfort
The infection can cause your nails to get thicker and more brittle. This can be painful, especially when you wear shoes or walk. In very serious cases, the nail can be permanently damaged.
Secondary infections
When you don’t treat toenail fungus, it can raise your risk of getting other bacterial infections. The damaged nail gives bacteria a place to enter your body, and these secondary infections can cause a lot of pain, swelling, and redness, and may even resemble dry toenails.
Why is toenail fungus often undertreated?
Lots of people don’t get treatment for toenail fungus, and there are a few reasons why.
First, people may not realize how much toenail fungus can affect their quality of life. Because of this, they may not think it’s worth treating.
Second, the cost and time commitment of treatment can be a barrier. In fact, only a small percentage of people with toenail fungus actually get treatment.
Finally, sometimes doctors misdiagnose the problem or don’t take a nail sample to confirm the infection. A visit to your general practitioner may not result in a prescription for nail fungus, even if that’s what you have.
Treatment options and why early intervention matters
If you suspect you have toenail fungus, get professional care right away.
There are numerous treatments available, including topical and oral medications. Oral medications tend to work better, but they can have side effects. Laser treatment is a newer option for killing fungus.
Your podiatrist or dermatologist can diagnose your infection and come up with a plan for treatment.
Early treatment is important for many reasons:
- It keeps the infection from spreading.
- It prevents complications.
- It reduces the risk of permanent nail damage.
- It improves your quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get rid of nail fungus ASAP?
Getting rid of nail fungus quickly can be tricky. While some over-the-counter treatments might offer relief, the fastest and most effective options typically involve prescription antifungal medications from a doctor. These can be topical or oral, depending on the severity of the infection.
Is it OK to live with toenail fungus?
While you can live with toenail fungus, it’s generally not recommended. Untreated fungus can spread to other nails or even to other people. Plus, it can cause pain, discomfort, and even difficulty walking in severe cases. It’s best to seek treatment to prevent these issues.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can worsen toenail fungus. These include wearing tight-fitting shoes that trap moisture, having sweaty feet, walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms or swimming pools, and having underlying health conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide might help in mild cases, but it’s not a guaranteed cure. It has some antifungal properties, but it’s not as potent as prescription medications. If you try it, be sure to dilute it and use it consistently, but don’t rely on it as your only treatment. Alternatively, some explore a bleach foot soak, but it is important to get the ratio right.
What does a toenail look like when the fungus is dying?
When the fungus is dying, you might notice the discoloration starting to fade, and the nail may begin to look healthier and less thickened. However, it takes time for the healthy nail to grow out, so don’t expect to see dramatic changes overnight. The old, infected portion of the nail needs to be replaced by new, healthy growth.
The Bottom Line
If you don’t treat toenail fungus, it can spread and cause damage to your nails. You could also develop other infections as a result.
It’s important to get a diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible to avoid complications and protect your overall health.
If you think you have toenail fungus, talk to a health professional to get the care you need.