Whether you enclose them in socks and shoes all day or spend a lot of time barefoot, your toenails are exposed to conditions that put them at risk for damage. One risks is a fungal infection, or onychomycosis, which can cause yellow, brittle toenails. Fungal infections may look unsightly in the advanced stages, but they are manageable.
Features
In the early stages, a nail fungus infection typically appears in the form of white or brown spots on the nail. As it advances, it can cause the nail to thicken and turn brown or yellow. The damaged toenail becomes brittle and can crumble or crack. You may also notice debris with an unpleasant odor building up around the toenail or under the nail bed. The nail may also separate from the nail bed.
Types
Nail fungus infections follow several different patterns, three of which cause yellowing, note experts from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The most common type is distal subungual onychomycosis, which starts on the tip of the nail, but can spread to the whole nail. Nail fungus may also start at the cuticle and move forward into the rest of the nail, a pattern more common in those with compromised immune systems. People with a rare condition known as chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis may also suffer from thick, yellow nails as well as other skin problems due to a candida fungus infection.
Treatments
Both topical and oral treatments are available to treat onychomycosis. Topical treatments, like lotions and creams, usually aren't effective, though, the University of Illinois experts warn. Oral medication can treat 50 to 80 percent of cases, but the infection is likely to reoccur. Oral medications for toenail fungus include itraconazole, terbinafine and fluconazole. For those who can't use these medications, topical ciclopirox is an alternative, although it's only minimally effective.
Prevention
Proper foot care may help you prevent toenail fungal infections or reinfection. Every day, wash your feet in warm water, dry them well and put on clean, cotton socks. Keep your toenails trimmed and avoid nail polish. Apply antifungal spray or powder to your feet and shoes. Wear protective footwear like flipflops in public locker rooms and showers.
Considerations
Toenail fungus is highly contagious and thrives in damp, warm conditions. That's why it's important to protect your feet in public shower rooms and similar locations. While medications can help treat fungal infections, they require long-term use and may cause side effects. Some people may be allergic to these medications. If you have yellow, cracked toenails, especially if the skin around the nail is red, swollen or sensitive, consult a health-care provider about an appropriate course of treatment.
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