A toenail fungus infection occurs when fungus spreads underneath the one or more toenails. According to MayoClinic.com, nail fungus belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. Dermatophytes thrive in warm, moist environment and can invade the nail through tiny breaks in the nail bed. Toenail are particularly susceptible because they are commonly in the warm, moist environment of a shoe. If circulation in the toes is diminished, it will prevent the body's immune system from fighting the fungus. A patient should be aware of the signs of toenail infection to know when to seek treatment.
Brittle Nails
According to Medline Plus, a website of the National Institutes of Health, the nails may become brittle if infected with fungus. This occurs because fungus can cause a breakdown in the nail, which can become crumbly or ragged. This breakdown in the nail can also put the patient at increased risk of damage to the nail bed because brittle nails no longer offer protection. A patient should schedule an appointment with his doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of nail fungus. While waiting for an appointment, a patient can use nail clippers and a nail file to clear away loose or crumbly nails. This will prevent excessive build up of nail crumbles, which can help improve the appearance of the toenail. In addition, clearing crumbling nails can prevent the nail from being ripped off during physical activity, which may cause more damage to the nail bed.
Dark Color
MayoClinic.com states that a patient may notice a dark color underneath the nail. This is caused by debris from nail breakdown that builds up over time. Thus, filing away the top of the nail, or applying topical medication may not remove the dark color underneath the nail. Oral medications that can treat fungus underneath the nail may be more effective at removing the dark color. Furthermore, a patient should not attempt bleaching the nail or other home treatments until he meets with his doctor.
Thickened Nail
The toenail may thicken over time, states MayoClinic.com. This occurs because the nail may become thick in order to block of the invading fungus. Over time, thickened toenails can become painful, especially when wearing tight-fitting shoes. A patient can regularly file the toenail to control toenail thickening. Treatment of the fungus, however, is necessary to heal the toenail.
Member Comments
laureenvigaon November 5
if Knowing the signs of toenail fungus is a such important, seeking for a toenail fungus treatment should also have the same importance.