Fungal toenails, or onychomycosis, is a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes that can affect the nails and skin of adults and adolescents. Common symptoms include thickening or brittleness of the nail plate with yellowish-brown discoloration; white patches may also appear along with an unpleasant odor around affected areas. If you experience such signs, you should consult your doctor for early diagnosis and treatment before further complications arise.
Fungal nail infections are a common and potentially serious condition that can occur when fungal spores gain access to the underneath of your nails. Not only is trauma, such as cuts or openings in the skin, an entry point for these fungi, but having existing medical conditions like diabetes may weaken one’s nails and make them more susceptible to infection. Additionally, sharing items used on infected feet with someone else – such as socks or shoes – increases risk, while exposure to frequently warm and damp environments encourages growth.
Treatment options for fungal toenails vary depending on severity but generally involve topical medications applied directly onto affected areas or oral medications taken internally, depending on how pervasive the infection is. In some cases, laser treatments have been used successfully, although side effects may be more severe compared with other methods. Additionally, if left untreated, this condition can spread to other toes or other parts of your body, so it’s important to seek medical advice as soon as possible if you notice signs of this condition developing to determine an effective treatment plan that suits your individual needs.