What is Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus is considered as one of the most common nail abnormalities and is characterized by the disfiguration, discoloration, degradation and eventual destruction of the infected toenail. The condition is referred to by different medical terms, namely, Tinea unguium, Onychomycosis, dermatophytic onychomycosis and ringworm of the nail.

Toenail fungus is a highly contagious disease and can easily be transmitted from one person to another. The elderly and those individuals with Diabetes mellitus and HIV are highly susceptible to this infection. Its incidence has also be traced to shower stalls, bathrooms and locker rooms, particularly those in public places and other locations that are unhygienic.

4 Main Types of Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is classified into 4 main categories based on the extent and type of the fungal infection. These are the following:

  • Distal Subungual Onychomycosis – This type of the toenail fungus could as well be considered the most common form of the fungal infection. It is caused by the pathogenic microorganism known as Trichophyton rubrum. It is an extremely serious infection as it causes harm to the infected toenail and significant damage to the keratin by burrowing into the nail bed and spreading to the nail plate.
  • Candida Onychomycosis – This is another form of the fungal infection which is highly prevalent. It is usually associated to habitual and extended immersion in water of the feet.
  • Proximal Subungal Onchomycosis – This type of the fungal infection is a form of Tinea unguium and is generally associated to weakened or compromised immune system. The fungus that causes the toenail infection initially penetrates the proximal nail fold and reaches the nail plate and the nail bed.
  • White Superficial Onychomycosis – This fungal problem is defined by the presence of what is known in medical parlance as “white islands” on the infected toenail. This condition is caused by the continued degradation and erosion of the superficial outer layer as a result of its exposure to the fungus. This type of the fungal infection only accounts for a small fraction of the known cases of toenail fungus. While it may not be as prevalent as the other forms of the fungal infection affecting the toenails, it is considered as a significant health concern as it is sometimes confused for another medical condition known as keratin granulation.

Toenail Fungus Complications

Nail fungus can be accompanied by pain and can result to permanent damage to the infected toenail. The fungal infection can also be a precursor of other serious infections that can affect other parts of the body. Such complications are usually due to weakened immune system, a condition that may be associated to the intake of certain medications, diabetes and HIV.

Nail fungus can be a major health problem for people who are suffering from Diabetes mellitus, leukemia and AIDS. A compromised immune system can trigger serious complications to people with toenail fungus while recipients of organ transplants are facing the highest risk of developing serious complications.

Diagnosis and Tests

The doctor will normally perform physical examination of the infected toenail first. A small sample may be taken by scraping some debris from underneath the affected toenail for lab analysis. Specifically, the debris taken from the infected toenail will be examined under the microscope or be subjected to culture to identify the pathogenic microorganism. There are other medical conditions which can mimic the signs and symptoms of toenail fungus. Thus, it is essential that such conditions are isolated for the determination of the appropriate course of treatment.

Prevention of Toenail Fungus

There are several healthy practices that must be observed to reduce the likelihood of having toenail fungus. It is essential that you follow these preventive measures not only to prevent the fungal infection but to reduce it recurrence as well.

  • Keep your toenails clean, dry and short
  • Avoid wearing synthetic socks. Wear breathable cotton socks instead.
  • Use antifungal powder or spray
  • Do not walk with your barefoot in public shower rooms, locker rooms and other public places.
  • Go to reputable pedicure salons
  • Regularly wash your hands, especially after touching the infected toenail
Treatment and Cure of Toenail Fungus

Treatment of toenail fungus can be a difficult undertaking and the treatment regimen would normally take months to complete. The courses of treatment can be divided into 2 main categories – Pharmacological or medical treatments and natural treatment or home remedies.

Pharmacological treatments involve the use of anti-fungal medications, systemic and topical preparations in treating the infection. The duration of treatment is largely dependent on the severity of the condition and the time that is required to shed off the infected nail and make space for a new nail to grow. The treatment regimen may run up to 12 months or more in order to achieve a complete cure.

On the other hand, the efficacy of natural treatment and home remedies for toenail fungus is anchored on the proper use and application of such treatment options. Such non-traditional treatment options can be used to effectively control and get rid of toenail fungus without the side effects which are usually observed in pharmacological treatments. One of the leading treatment options under this category is Funginix toenail fungus treatment.