Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus or onychomycosis as it is known medically, is a fairly common ailment of the toenails. This condition is caused by different types of fungi which can deface and even destruct the nail.

Fungi are microscopic organisms which are related to mildew and these can infect people with a low immune system. This infection can also occur in healthy people but it is rare in children.

This infection affects the bed below the toenail. The fungus feeds on a type of protein found in non-living tissue, called keratin and it is attracted to a dark and damp environment, common to the foot. The nails of the toes can become thickened and ugly when infected with fungus. In some cases they can also become yellowish.

The fungus Trichophyton Rubrum which also causes “athlete's foot” is one of the most common causes of toenail fungal infection. Sometimes this infection occurs due to yeast. There are a variety of other fungi which can also affect the toenail.

Toenails can become thickened due to injury as well. This condition wears off as the thickened area grows out. This may happen to football players and also older people who may have sustained damage to their nails over the years. In the latter case the damage takes longer to heal because the nails grow slower in older people.

Nails can also become thickened due to psoriasis, which is a skin condition which can also affect the nails. In this condition the surface of the nail becomes pitted and the nail thickens.

Fungi which affect the toenails are commonly found in wet surfaces such as communal showers and changing rooms. They thrive in conditions which are moist and warm. This can occur when people wear closed shoes for long periods of time, thus trapping heat and sweat, creating an ideal condition for fungi to thrive.

Toenail fungal infection starts under the tip of the nail. It can occur when a person is diabetic or has an immune deficiency. Damage to the tip of the nail can also create an ideal condition for fungal infection. The elderly who may have suffered some damage to the nails are easy prey for fungal infection. The infection can spread to the toenail if the person already suffers from athlete's foot.

The fungal infection which starts at the tip of the nail gradually spreads to the sides and the base of the nail. As the infection spreads the nail can become loosened from the toe and the separated area can become filled with a yellowish-white crumbly substance. The infection takes a few months or years to spread and causes the nail to become discoloured and thick. In some cases the infection can start at the base of the nail or affect the middle of the nail only.

Toenail fungal infection can be prevented with proper foot care. Those who wear closed shoes should choose a pair with plenty of room for the toes. Open toed sandals or slippers should be worn whenever possible to air the feet. The feet should be dried thoroughly after washing, especially between the toes, to prevent infection.

A trained chiropodist can give advice on foot care and also on treatment for toenail fungus.

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