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Toenail Fungus

  • Introduction
  • Anatomy
  • Causes
  • Symptoms
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Prevention
  • Am I at Risk
  • Complications

Introduction

Not only is toenail fungus unsightly, but it is difficult to treat.  You should consult a podiatrist at the first sign of toenail fungus, such as white or yellow spots on the nails.  Your doctor will provide treatments to help stop the fungus and promote healthy nail regrowth.
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Anatomy

Your toenails are hard surfaces that protect the ends of your toes. Toenails grow very slowly.  New cells form at the base (nail root) of the nail underneath the cuticle.  The new cells push the old cells out, covering the nail bed.  The toenail is formed from old cells that harden and flatten with the help of a hard protein substance (keratin).  This is the same type of protein in hair.
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Causes

A toenail fungus infection results when fungi (dermatophytes) enter the nail through a small opening.  The fungi grow best in a warm moist environment, such as damp socks or shoes.  Because the toenails do not have a good blood supply, it is hard for the immune system to rid the body of the infection on its own.

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Symptoms

A white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail is usually the first sign of toenail fungus.  The toenail will thicken and become discolored (brown, yellow, white).  The toenail may be brittle and ragged.  An infected toenail can hurt and smell bad.
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Diagnosis

You should see a podiatrist at the first sign of toenail fungus.  Your doctor will review your medical history and examine your toenails.  A sample from underneath the edge of your toenail will be examined to confirm the diagnosis.
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Treatment

Your podiatrist will trim your toenail.  Medicated nail polish or oral antifungal medication is used to treat the fungus.  Over-the-counter products are usually not very helpful because toenail fungus is hard to treat.  It will take about 4 months or longer for an infection to heal and a new toenail to grow.
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Prevention

You can help prevent toenail fungus by:

• Trimming your nails straight across.
• Keeping your nails clean and dry.
• Using an antifungal spray or powder daily.
• Wearing shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and pool surrounds.
• Discontinuing the use of nail polish.  Nail polish can trap fungus and promote an infection.
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Am I at Risk

The fungus that causes toenail infections thrives in warm damp areas, including public areas, such as locker rooms, showers, gyms, and pool surrounds.  Walking barefoot increases the likelihood of contact with the fungus.  Toenail fungus infections occur most frequently in older adults and men. 

Risk factors for toenail fungus infections include:

• If your family members have toenail fungus, you are at risk for having it too.
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or a compromised immune system.

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Complications

An infected toenail can detach from the nail bed. In extremely severe cases, the toenail may need to be surgically removed.
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Copyright ©  - iHealthSpot Interactive - www.iHealthSpot.com

This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.

The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.

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5 Stars Review

Dr Latt and his staff are AMAZING. Dr Latt takes his time to listen to you and explain everything In detail! The lobby looks amazing, made my heart feel the Spirit of Christmas. My mom was diagnosed with liver failure on Christmas Day and passed 10 days later, 2 years ago and I have really struggled to feel the spirit of Christmas since then. The minute I opened the door and walked into the building pure joy flooded my soul. Thanks to the Staff at Palm Medical for the Amazing Holiday Scene May God Bless you and your families always.

Mrs. Asher

5 Stars Review

Highly recommend Lou Ann Albano! She is very compassionate, friendly, skillful, attentive, provides excellent care and really listens to you. You are in great hands!

Deanne S.

5 Stars Review

I just wish I could quit forgetting my blood work appointment, but other than that everything is fine. I have been getting great care from Dr. Renan and the office staff is excellent.

Jennifer D.

5 Stars Review

The staff greets me with a smile and by name. There's never a long wait, and Dr. Min is the PC that I have ever had. 15 yrs and counting!

Rose R.

5 Stars Review

I am very happy to be a Patient at Dr Aristides Martinez Office, my appointment yesterday with Andrea was far above expected, she dedicated about one hour to talk with me about all my pains and my concerns. It was like if I would've been with a Psychologist, I came out of her office with all my questions answered and sure that I am in very good hands. I thanks God that I started coming to this Clinic.

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I love Ms. Patel and the girls in the office. I rarely have to wait long. I have been going to this office since it was JayCare in 2015. I have never had a problem with any of the doctors or PAs that I have seen. Ms. Patel actually takes time with me and listens to my concerns. I already recommend her to everyone I know.

Kayleigh Ray

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Since moving to Florida three years ago I’ve seen many doctors and just didn’t have a good feeling. Once I walked into Dr Shah’s office from the front desk staff to the doctor himself was a wonderful experience. You are always given their undivided attention and Dr. Shah is Very thorough in his exams. I give 5 stars to this office

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Dr Fundora is absolutely incredible, very knowledgeable and caring and her entire staff is amazing too, highly recommended. The receptionists and even the security guards are extremely helpful and friendly, they always remember me when I come in and they’ve all always gone above and beyond to make each experience as easy and stress free as possible.

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