Toenail Fungus Specialist

What are the signs of toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that starts in the skin beneath your toenail, the toenail bed. The fungi spread through the skin and the nail, leading to nail symptoms such as:

• Yellow, white, or brownish color 
• Changed shape, like new ridges
• Thickening
• Crumbling
• Cracking
• Ragged edges
• Partial detachment from the nail bed
• Foul odor

Toenail fungus is usually painless, but many people find it embarrassing. 

What causes toenail fungus?

You can develop toenail fungus after any exposure to fungal organisms. Usually, fungi penetrate your skin through tiny cracks or cuts in or around your toes. Fungi are prevalent in warm and damp areas, for example, swimming pools and shower rooms. Walking barefoot in such an area is the most common way to get toenail fungus. 

You're more likely to get toenail fungus after age 60, although anyone can have it. Diabetes and other conditions that weaken your immune system can increase your risk of toenail fungus. 

Athlete's foot is the skin version of toenail fungus. If you have athlete's foot, the infection can spread to your toenails and vice versa.

Dirty feet, sweaty socks, and tight, enclosed footwear can all increase your chances of toenail fungus, but fortunately, you can take simple steps to avoid these risks. 

How is toenail fungus diagnosed?

At Cedars Foot and Ankle Center, Dr. Soleymani examines your toenail closely and asks about your symptoms and lifestyle. In some cases, he can visually diagnose nail fungus with no testing.

He may scrape a tiny amount of nail and skin material from the underside of your nail for a microscopic examination or lab testing. This testing can determine whether you have toenail fungus or another condition, such as psoriasis. Lab testing can also identify the particular kind of fungi in your nail.

How is toenail fungus treated?

There are quite a few treatments for toenail fungus, but the American Podiatric Medical Association says that oral antifungal medication may be the best option. Therefore, Dr. Soleymani may prescribe both oral and topical antifungal medication to fight your toenail fungus effectively.

If you have significant nail damage, Dr. Soleymani may recommend debridement, a simple in-office procedure to remove the infected skin and nail. While you want to eliminate your nail fungus permanently, Dr. Soleymani understands that you also desire good aesthetic results. He always takes care to restore your nail to a healthy and natural appearance. 

For help with nail fungus, call Cedars Foot and Ankle Center or schedule an appointment today.