Fungal nails / Athletes foot
Fungal Nail Infection
Description
It is an infection of the nail plate and nail bed underlying the surface of a nail. Fungal nail infection, a condition called onychomycosis (ON-i-ko-my-KO-sis), is caused primarily by organisms called dermatophytes. Once these tiny organisms find their way under a nail, they begin to multiply. Ironically, when the fungus finds its way under the nail, the nail itself provides a protective environment for the fungus to thrive. The toenails are most vulnerable to infection, since they are always surrounded by dark, warm, and often moist shoes and socks. When fungal nail infection attacks, it can cause the nail to change colour, often to a yellow/green or darker colour. Debris may collect under the nail, causing a foul smell. Your nail may thicken and become brittle and crumble.. Thick toenails, in particular, may cause discomfort in shoes and may even make standing and walking uncomfortable for some people. Since it is an infection, it can spread to other nails, and possibly to other people. Something as ordinary as an emery board can carry the fungal organisms from an infected nail to an uninfected one. That’s why it is so important to seek treatment as soon as you think you have an infection.
In the elderly or ill person an important consideration is the likelihood of cross infection to the skin which in itself isn’t dangerous but could easily create a break in the skin allowing far more dangerous bacterial infections to get in.
Some likely causes
Fungal nail infection has little to do with personal cleanliness. Something as simple as banging a toe or finger, trimming your nails too closely, or wearing tight shoes is enough to weaken the nail and expose the underlying nail bed to infection. The fungus that causes the infection resides in many common places, even your garden. You can also contract the infection from unsterilized instruments that have been used on others when getting a manicure or pedicure.
Some people have chronic disorders that make them more susceptible to fungal nail infection. People with diabetes, circulatory problems, and immunological deficiencies (such as AIDS/HIV infection) are at increased risk, as are the elderly. Moreover, fungal nail infection appears to be more prevalent in those with a history of athlete’s foot (a fungal infection of the skin) and people whose feet perspire a lot. Additionally wearing nail varnish for long periods of time can damage the surface of the nail plate allowing the fungus to get a hold.
What we can do
Our Podiatrist can assess and prescribe effective treatments for fungal nail infections.
This will normally involve thinning down the thickened nail followed by the use of special solutions to kill the fungus. This can take a year as you have to keep applying the chemical whilst the nail grows out.
Athlete’s foot
Description
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection of the skin characterized by itching, scaling, redness, and the formation of small blisters. In general the lesions start between the toes and can extend to the borders and bottom of the foot. The fungus has the potential to spread to the toenails, causing them to become thickened, discolored, and painful. In this case the infection is called onychomycosis .While this infection is common among athletes, it can affect non-athletes as well.
Some likely causes
Athlete’s foot can be picked up anywhere the fungus comes into contact with the skin of the feet. Typically places such as changing rooms and hotel rooms where your feet are walking where someone with the fungus has already walked can pass on the fungus.
What we can do
- Perform a physical examination of your feet and advise you.
- Prescribe topical antifungal medications.
- Advise oral antifungal medications (only available by prescription).