Theyre quite common, affecting up to 14% of people.
While fungal nail infections arent a serious health problem, they can sometimes cause pain.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
What Do Different Types of Toenail Fungus Look Like?
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
you might pick up a toenail fungus from your environment.
It often gets in through small cracks in the nail or the skin around it.
The fungus may infect one nail or multiple nails and the surrounding skin.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Each key in has its own signs, symptoms, causes, and appearance.
Subungual Onychomycosis
The most common jot down of toenail fungus issubungualonychomycosis.
It may affect the tip or sides of the nail.
Luliia Petrovskaia / Getty Images
It then moves toward the base of the nail.
Less often, the infection begins at the base of the nail.
This area then thickens and becomes discolored.
This is associated with a compromised immune system, especially human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
What Does “Subungual” Mean?
“Sub” means “under,” and “ungual” refers to a fingernail or toenail.
Thus, “subungual” means “under the nail.”
Reproduced with permission from DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Luliia Petrovskaia / Getty Images
Risk Factors
Anyone can get a fungal toenail infection.
A person with diabetes or a compromised immune system may increase this risk.
Youre more likely to be successful if you starttoenail fungus treatmentsright away.
Youll know the treatment is working when you see healthy growth at the base of the nail.
Antifungal nail creams are widely available in drug stores and online.
The most common treatment is a 12-week course of a drug called terbinafine.
More and more, experts are urging healthcare providers to get alaboratory diagnosisbefore they start treating a patient.
That way, they can begin the proper treatment as soon as possible.
It may take several months or even a year for your fungal infection to clear up.
This is a minor procedure thats usually done with a local anesthetic to numb the area.
If you have or suspect a toenail fungus, take swift action to keep the problem from becoming worse.
Other Conditions That Look Like Toenail Fungus
Not all conditions that affect your toenail are fungal infections.
Is Toenail Fungus Contagious?
Yes, toenail fungus is contagious.
Just as it can spread to other nails or skin, it can also spread to other people.
This means that preventive measures are especially important when you have a fungal infection.
Ensure they sterilize all instruments before using them on you.
Toenail vs. Fingernail Fungal Infections
Both toenails and fingernails can develop fungal infections.
However, its more common in toenails.
Summary
Toenail fungal infections are common and can be difficult to treat.
You may be prone to them if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
Treatment may involve some combination of over-the-counter products, prescription-strength topical treatments, and oral antifungal medications.
Many conditions cause similar symptoms.
See your healthcare provider if you notice concerning changes in your toenails.
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