Nail Fungus Problems

If white or yellow spots appear on your fingernails or toenails, it may be an indication of a fungus infection. Such infections could be caused by fungi called dermatophytes or by yeasts and molds. If left untreated, the fungus infection could remain, so some treatment is recommended. Fungus tends to occur on toenails more often than fingernails because of the darkness, warmth and moisture likely surrounding toenails, which provides an ideal environment for fungi to grow. Other factors leading to the likelihood of nail fungal infections include aging and diabetes, which tends to lessen healthy blood circulation. Fungus infections of the nails are difficult to treat, according to Mayo Clinic staff, so non-traditional treatments like a vinegar soak might be tried. An anti-fungal medication may be prescribed as well as keeping your feet clean and dry.

Discoloration

Your nails will tend to cloud with white or yellow spots. A spread of the discoloration indicates a spread of the infection. This discoloration is unsightly, but Mayo Clinic staff warn that covering the nails with nail polish may prolong the problem due to trapping moisture and the spreading infection within the nail.

Thickening

Besides discoloration, nails tend to thicken with a fungus infection. The thickening increases the difficulty of combating the fungus infection because there is more infected material to cure and therefore more resistance to the cure. The thickening also tends to make the nail weaker.

Flaking

After thickening, a nail with a fungus infection may start to disintegrate, with flaking and crumbling. The edges will become ragged and start to come apart.

Pain and Odor

Once the nail starts to thicken and crumble, it may become painful. Thickening and crumbling can lead to separation from the nail bed and pain along the area where the nail attaches to the skin. This condition is called onycholysis and may come with a foul odor.

Complications

Those with nail fungus infections may develop complications, especially if their immune system is compromised with AIDS or diabetes. More serious infections of the skin like cellulitis could develop from a nail fungus infection.