KEEP ON YOUR TOES ABOUT TOENAIL FUNGUS

Talking about toenail fungus may seem taboo, but it’s the only way to take control of it. It’s more prevalent than you think and extremely contagious. If caught early, though, it’s pretty easy to treat, even with home remedies or over-the-counter medications. Ignore it and the situation can go south very fast! Here’s how to spot if you have a problem, and what to do about it.

 The fundamentals of fungus

Toenail fungus, which physicians call onychomycosis, is an infection that can cause nails to change colour and texture, usually to a yellow hue and a thicker, yet more brittle consistency. It can be painful, but often isn’t, which is why many people pay it no mind—but left untreated, it can get worse. The fungus often starts off between the toes, commonly called Athlete’s Foot, and then spreads to the nail, but it can also occur the other way around.  

Not only can you lose the nails, but if you have underlying conditions, the spread of the fungus can compromise your overall immune system. In severe cases, the infection can affect the skin and turn into cellulitis which, once it enters the bloodstream, can be fatal. People with compromised immune systems or conditions like diabetes need to be especially careful: not only are they more susceptible, but the infections tend to spread more rapidly and are harder to treat.

 The condition can be brought on by a number of factors. Family history plays a part, but fungal infections are also more prevalent in warmer climates like the Caribbean. You should take great care to practice good hygiene after working out, since sweaty shoes and socks provide the ideal environment for fungus to thrive—and while we totally get the need for style, choose shoes that do not pinch or confine your feet in any way. Sharing baths is not a good idea, because it’s a surefire way for fungus to spread. After showering, make sure to properly dry in between your toes.

Fungus vs. bacteria

It’s always a good idea to have a dermatologist look at any nail infection, since they are often misdiagnosed.

TRUE STORY / A group of women came to us with what they thought was toenail fungus. In fact, it was a bacteria known as pseudomonas—which turned their toenails green—caused by dirty water at a spa they all patronised. Had they not come to us, and assumed, as many people do, that it was fungal, they would likely have bought over-the-counter treatments that would have been ineffective against bacteria, making the situation worse. 

Patients with pseudomonas, a bacterial infection that is often mistaken for toenail fungus.

What type do you have?

There are basically five main categories fungal infections, caused either by dermatophytes, yeasts or molds:

1.     Distal lateral subungual onychomycosis (DLSO)—This is the most common type. The infection typically starts towards the edge of the nail and causes yellowish discolouration and thickening. The nail can also take on a crumbly texture.

2.     Proximal subungual onychomycosis (PSO)—This is type that often occurs in immunocompromised patients.

3.     White superficial onychomycosis (WSO)—These white patches, which start at the cuticle, can usually be buffed off.

4.     Endonyx onychomycosis (EO)—This is defined by white discolouration of the nail, which otherwise appears normal (no lines or thickening).

5.     Candidal onychomycosis (CO)—A fairly rare form, this is categorised by white grooves and thickening of the nail, as well as swelling of the affected toe.

Treatment

Simpler fungal infections can be dealt with by scraping away the fungus and treating the nail with topical medications before it starts to erode. Depending on the stage the infection is at, prescription oral meds might be necessary.

We’ve also got a super-effective way of dealing with fungal infections that are more advanced, and where the nails have already thickened: lasers. Like any fungus, toenail infections do better in moist areas, so the heat from our lasers dries them right up!

As with any medical condition, it’s best to catch toenail fungus early, so if you have any questions or concerns, schedule a consultation with us.