Nail Fungus Specialist

What is nail fungus?

Also called onychomycosis, nail fungus is a fungal infection that affects your nails. It may begin as a tiny white or yellow spot beneath your nail and grow progressively worse.

Both your fingernails and toenails can develop fungal infections, but this condition is more common in your toes. Nail fungus can affect many toes at once. When nail fungus affects the skin in between your toes and on your feet, it’s called athlete’s foot (tinea pedis).

How do I know if I have nail fungus?

Symptoms of nail fungus vary depending on the severity of the infection. Common nail fungus symptoms include:

• White to yellow-brown nails
• Thickened nails
• Brittle or crumbly nails
• Distorted nail shape

Advanced cases of nail fungus can cause the nails to darken, lift from the nail bed, and smell foul as debris builds up beneath it. The nail may also become more sensitive to touch or even painful.

What causes nail fungus?

The fungi that cause nail infections thrive in damp, warm, and dark environments like the inside of your shoes. You can get nail fungus if fungi enter a crack in your nail. Athlete’s foot can also spread to your toenails and cause toenail fungus.

When should I see a podiatrist for nail fungus?

Nail fungus is difficult to get rid of on your own. You should schedule an appointment at AllCare Foot & Ankle Center if you have nail fungus that’s bothersome, painful, or resistant to over-the-counter treatments.

If you have diabetes or another condition that causes circulation problems, you should call AllCare Foot & Ankle Center at the first sign of nail fungus. Diabetes increases your risk of complications from any type of foot wound, including nail fungus.

How is nail fungus diagnosed and treated?

First, your podiatrist at AllCare Foot & Ankle Center carefully examines your nails and reviews your symptoms and medical history. They may also take a nail clipping to examine under a microscope or send to a lab for testing.

Then, they recommend the best treatment for your specific type of fungal infection. This typically includes prescription oral or topical antifungal medications. Even with expert care, nail fungus is difficult to treat and may take several months to completely disappear.

If you notice signs of nail fungus, call AllCare Foot & Ankle Center, or book an appointment online today.