Complete Guide to Recognizing and Treating Toenail Fungus Infections

Understanding Toenail and Foot Fungal Infections

Fungal infections of the toenails or feet can occur for many people. These conditions stem from microscopic organisms that can get inside the nails and top layers of skin. Recognizing the signs and receiving proper treatment is key to resolving issues.

Common Causes of Fungal Growth

Toenail and foot fungus often develops in moist, damp areas. Some potential sources include:

• Sweaty shoes or socks
• Shared showers or locker rooms
• Pools and hot tubs
• Nail salons with unclean tools
• Walking barefoot in public places

People with reduced circulation or compromised immune systems may also be more prone to fungal overgrowth on feet.

Appearance of Fungal Nail Infections

There is significant variety in how foot and toenail fungus might look. Some characteristics include:

• Thickened, brittle, distorted nails
• White, black or yellow streaks on nails
• Nail separation from nail bed
• Crumbly nail debris and fragments
• Chipped, flaky nails

These signs can appear subtly and worsen gradually over time. Or some cases may be associated with pain, inflammation and pus.

Diagnosis of Foot and Nail Fungus

Self-diagnosis of toenail fungus from pictures online can be difficult and inconclusive. There are many nail conditions that mimic fungal infections. Instead, dermatologists recommend:

Physical Exam

A podiatrist or dermatologist can examine the toenails, feet, and skin for clinical evidence of fungal presence. Features they assess include nail thickness, debris, nail plate separation, and hyperpigmentation.

Microscopy

Clippings of nails can be collected to view under a microscope. This allows detection of fungal hyphae filaments not visible to the naked eye.

Fungal Culture

Laboratories can culture nail clippings on special medias to grow and positively identify fungal organisms. Determining the species helps guide oral medication options.

Once fungus is confirmed through these tests, appropriate antifungal treatments can begin.

Common Medications for Fungus

Prescription oral medications, topical solutions, and medicated nail polishes can treat toenail fungus. Types include:

Oral Antifungals

• Terbinafine (Lamisil)
• Itraconazole (Sporanox)
• Fluconazole (Diflucan)

Oral therapy generally lasts 12 weeks, with liver function testing needed due to risks of elevated enzymes and rare liver failure.

Topical Preparations

• Econzaole (Spectazole)
• Ciclopirox (Penlac Nail Lacquer)
• Tavaborole (Kerydin)

These colorless polishes and solutions are brushed onto affected nails every 1-2 weeks after debridement and cleansing. Use continues for several months based on nail growth.

Additional Considerations

Patients on certain medications or with underlying health issues should discuss all treatment options thoroughly with prescribing doctors.

Outlook for Toenail and Foot Fungus Cases

With early intervention and compliant perseverance of topical regimens or oral antifungal courses, remission success is fairly high. Typical expectations following treatments that eradicate fungal burden include:

• 75% see healthy nail regrowth by 4 months
• 90% clear by 6 months
• 6-12+ months for complete restoration

Eliminating the fungus is critical so infection does not spread across nails or to skin. Preventing recurrence relies on proper nail care and consistently dry feet.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.