What is Toenail Fungus? Causes and Symptoms
- posted: Jul. 10, 2024
Is toenail fungus causing irritation and embarrassment in your life? Dr. Ryan Kemp, Dr. Kerry Anderson, and Dr. Boyd Andrews at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates of Boise, Nampa & Meridian, ID are committed to helping you find relief.
Quick Guide To Toenail Fungus: Causes and Symptoms
Nail fungus is a microscopic fungal organism that grows beneath the toenail. It feeds on the skin and creates some very undesirable symptoms. Unfortunately, they don’t typically stay in one place. If not treated promptly and properly, they can spread to all of your toes.
Understanding what causes this process to occur and the symptoms it creates is the first step in preventing and treating toenail fungus. Dr. Kemp, Dr. Anderson, and Dr. Andrews at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates in Boise, Nampa & Meridian, ID share this information below.
What Causes Fungus Beneath the Toenails?
These fungal organisms pass through the skin through small cracks, and they thrive in warm, moist environments. An infection typically develops beneath the toenails if you share footwear with someone who has an infection, or if you walk around barefoot in gyms, public pools, or locker rooms.
Those who live in humid climates are more likely to develop an infection, as are those who sweat constantly or have chronically dry, cracked skin. Additionally, those with diabetes are at a higher risk, as diabetes impacts blood flow and the ability to fight off infections.
What Are the Symptoms?
Toenail infections can cause some uncomfortable and unsightly symptoms. These can include the following.
- Your toenails become thick and brittle.
- They seem to lift away from the nail bed.
- You have a foul odor coming from your feet or shoes.
- The nails have developed streaks, which are usually yellow or white.
- The toenail may begin to crumble or completely fall off your toe.
- You might deal with constant redness, itching, or inflammation.
In many cases, conservative methods of treatment can provide relief in the earliest stages. However, the longer it is left untreated, the less likely conservative methods will be successful. In some cases, complete nail removal in conjunction with medication and other techniques will be required. It’s wise to seek care at the first signs of infection.
If you are suffering from toenail fungus, let Dr. Kemp, Dr. Anderson, and Dr. Andrews at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates of Boise, Nampa & Meridian, ID offer personalized treatment plans for optimal relief. You can schedule an appointment at our Boise office by calling (208) 327-0627, our Nampa/Caldwell office by calling (208) 463-1660, or our Meridian office by calling (208) 888-9876.
- posted: Jul. 10, 2024
Is toenail fungus causing irritation and embarrassment in your life? Dr. Ryan Kemp, Dr. Kerry Anderson, and Dr. Boyd Andrews at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates of Boise, Nampa & Meridian, ID are committed to helping you find relief.
Quick Guide To Toenail Fungus: Causes and Symptoms
Nail fungus is a microscopic fungal organism that grows beneath the toenail. It feeds on the skin and creates some very undesirable symptoms. Unfortunately, they don’t typically stay in one place. If not treated promptly and properly, they can spread to all of your toes.
Understanding what causes this process to occur and the symptoms it creates is the first step in preventing and treating toenail fungus. Dr. Kemp, Dr. Anderson, and Dr. Andrews at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates in Boise, Nampa & Meridian, ID share this information below.
What Causes Fungus Beneath the Toenails?
These fungal organisms pass through the skin through small cracks, and they thrive in warm, moist environments. An infection typically develops beneath the toenails if you share footwear with someone who has an infection, or if you walk around barefoot in gyms, public pools, or locker rooms.
Those who live in humid climates are more likely to develop an infection, as are those who sweat constantly or have chronically dry, cracked skin. Additionally, those with diabetes are at a higher risk, as diabetes impacts blood flow and the ability to fight off infections.
What Are the Symptoms?
Toenail infections can cause some uncomfortable and unsightly symptoms. These can include the following.
- Your toenails become thick and brittle.
- They seem to lift away from the nail bed.
- You have a foul odor coming from your feet or shoes.
- The nails have developed streaks, which are usually yellow or white.
- The toenail may begin to crumble or completely fall off your toe.
- You might deal with constant redness, itching, or inflammation.
In many cases, conservative methods of treatment can provide relief in the earliest stages. However, the longer it is left untreated, the less likely conservative methods will be successful. In some cases, complete nail removal in conjunction with medication and other techniques will be required. It’s wise to seek care at the first signs of infection.
If you are suffering from toenail fungus, let Dr. Kemp, Dr. Anderson, and Dr. Andrews at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates of Boise, Nampa & Meridian, ID offer personalized treatment plans for optimal relief. You can schedule an appointment at our Boise office by calling (208) 327-0627, our Nampa/Caldwell office by calling (208) 463-1660, or our Meridian office by calling (208) 888-9876.