Toenail Fungus

What Is Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects the nail plate and nail bed. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments such as shoes, locker rooms, pools, and communal showers. Once fungus enters the nail, it can be difficult to clear because nails grow slowly and the infection is protected under the nail surface.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include yellow, white, brown, or cloudy nail discoloration, thickened nails, brittle or crumbly edges, lifting of the nail from the nail bed, distorted shape, foul odor, discomfort in shoes, and difficulty trimming the nail. Some patients also have athlete’s foot or recurring skin peeling between the toes.

Risk Factors

Toenail fungus is more common in people who sweat heavily, wear tight or damp shoes, walk barefoot in public wet areas, have nail trauma, have diabetes, have circulation problems, have weakened immune systems, or have a history of athlete’s foot. Older adults are also more likely to develop fungal nails because nails grow more slowly and may become more vulnerable over time.

Diagnosis

Not every thick or discolored nail is caused by fungus. Trauma, psoriasis, eczema, circulation problems, and other nail disorders can look similar. Dr. Suh can examine the nail and may recommend testing to confirm fungus before beginning treatment.

Treatment at DFW Foot and Ankle

Treatment may include professional nail debridement, topical antifungal medication, oral antifungal medication when appropriate, shoe and hygiene guidance, treatment for athlete’s foot, and ongoing monitoring as the nail grows out. Diabetic patients should seek treatment promptly because fungal nails can increase pressure, create skin irritation, and raise infection risk.

Prevention

Keep feet clean and dry, change socks regularly, rotate shoes, use antifungal spray or powder when recommended, avoid walking barefoot in public wet areas, disinfect nail tools, and treat athlete’s foot early.