Generally, toenail fungus is not considered a serious condition if it is treated promptly and properly. However, if left untreated, toenail fungus can become a serious issue. If the infection becomes deep enough, it can spread to the tissue underneath the toenail and even to other parts of the body.
This could cause cysts, ulcers, and even bone infection. In severe cases, it may even require surgery. Additionally, there is the possibility of developing an allergic reaction to the fungus itself, and this could cause more serious symptoms.
It is therefore important to take care of toenail fungus as soon as possible, and to seek medical attention if it progresses or becomes worse.
What happens if you leave toenail fungus untreated?
If toenail fungus is left untreated, it could lead to even more severe issues. Fungal toenails can become painful and cause the toenail to thicken. This can make it difficult to trim them, which can lead to sharp edges and discomfort with shoe wear.
In more severe cases, toenail fungus can cause the nail to crumble and pieces of the nail to separate from the nail bed. In addition to the physical discomfort, toenail fungus can also cause chronic embarrassment or insecurity as the discoloration and odor may be highly visible.
Furthermore, untreated toenail fungus can be a source of infection for other parts of the body. If the nails become long and thick enough, they can tear the skin or puncture the skin, allowing bacteria or fungi to enter.
This can open the door to a wide range of other issues, such as cellulitis and abscesses, and may require intravenous antibiotic treatment. Toenail fungus can also spread to other people in close contact or to other parts of the same person’s body, such as in the cases of athlete’s foot.
For these reasons and more, it is important to address toenail fungus as soon as it is noticed. Treatment options may include over-the-counter antifungal creams, nail-polish treatments, and even laser therapy.
In some cases, prescription medications may be needed from a healthcare provider, such as an oral antifungal medication.
Can toenail fungus be life threatening?
No, toenail fungus is not life threatening. Fortunately, while it can be a nuisance to deal with, most toenail fungus is treatable and can usually be managed with topical or oral medications. However, those with weakened immune systems, such as people who have HIV/AIDS or have had an organ transplant, may be more prone to toenail fungus because their immune systems are unable to fight off infection as efficiently as a healthy person’s.
In those cases, toenail fungus can be more difficult to treat and may require stronger medications. Fortunately, severe cases of toenail fungus are still rare, and even people with weakened immune systems can avoid or manage the condition by practicing good hygiene and making sure they wear clean and dry shoes.
Will toenail fungus go away on its own?
Unfortunately, toenail fungus will not go away on its own. Fungal infections can be difficult to treat, and even harder to get rid of, particularly when it comes to toenails. Toenail fungus is caused by fungi called dermatophytes, which reside on the upper layers of your skin and invade your skin and nails, living underneath the nail bed.
It can cause nail discoloration, thickening, disfigurement and even an unpleasant smell. Since the fungus lives on the outside of the nail, where creams and ointments cannot penetrate, they are not usually effective in treating toenail fungus.
If left untreated, the fungus can cause permanent damage. Treatment, which may include oral medication, topical medication, laser treatment, and even partial or complete nail removal, is strongly recommended depending on the severity of the infection.
Can toenail fungus spread internally?
No, toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is not able to spread within the body or to other body parts. Toenail fungus is a cause of inflamed, thickened and disfigured nails. It only affects the outer layers of the skin and does not spread throughout the body’s internal systems.
Toenail fungus is most commonly caused when a fungus is able to enter the nail bed, resulting in infection and inflammation.
Toenail fungus is typically treated with medication, like antifungal creams and pills, as well as by simply improving hygiene practices. Removing any excess moisture from the toenail area, such as through a dryer, can help to prevent toenail fungus from growing.
Additionally, protecting the toenails from further damage and always wearing shoes can also help to minimize the risk of further infection.
When should I worry about toenail fungus?
It is important to pay attention to any discoloration, thickening, crumbling, or unusual odor in your toenails which could be signs of toenail fungus. If left untreated, toenail fungus can cause permanent damage to the nail and may even spread to other nails or people.
Most toenail fungus doesn’t cause any other health problems, but in some cases, it can lead to more serious infections. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect a fungal infection.
Your doctor can diagnose the infection and then provide the right treatment to help get rid of the fungus. Treatment may include topical or oral anti-fungal medications or a combination of both. Additionally, good hygiene practices like keeping your feet clean, changing socks often and wearing shoes that fit properly can help to prevent toenail fungus from developing or spreading.
How long can fungus live on toenails?
Fungus may live on toenails for weeks, months, or even longer. Though exact timeframes may vary, fungus can survive on toenails for as long as the conditions are favorable for growth. Fungal organisms can live in moist, warm environments, which means fungus can thrive in the warm, moist environment of your feet.
Additionally, if fungus remains on the toenail, it can easily spread to the skin and nails of nearby toes.
To prevent fungus from living on your toenails, it is important to keep your feet clean and dry. You should wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day and use an antibacterial soap that removes bacteria and fungi.
Make sure to dry between the toes and wear socks made from materials that allow your feet to breathe. Additionally, it is important to change your socks daily and wear well-fitting shoes that do not rub against your skin.
If you notice discoloration or other signs of fungus on your toenails, it is important to visit a doctor as soon as possible and take the necessary steps to prevent it from spreading.
Will toenail grow back normal after fungus?
Yes, toenail fungus can be treated, and a healthy toenail will usually grow back in its place. Fungal toenail infections often cause a yellow or white discoloration of the toenail, and thickening and roughness of the nail plate.
It may also cause the toenail to separate from the nail bed. Treatment for toenail fungus may include drainage and debridement, the use of antifungal medications, or a combination of both. Treatment is aimed at killing the fungus and allowing the toe to heal.
In some cases, a prescription antifungal medication is needed to treat the infection and promote healing. If the toenail fungus is severe and extensive, a nail matrixectomy may be recommended. This procedure involves removal of the nail matrix and part of the nail bed to keep the infection from recurring.
After treatment, a healthy toenail should grow back in its place over time. It may not look the same as the original toenail, it may be thicker, but it should be healthy.
Why does it take so long to cure toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a stubborn condition that can take a long time to treat and some people find it difficult to completely cure. This is because the fungus, which is typically caused by an infection of the nail by a type of fungus called dermatophytes, is difficult to eliminate because it thrives in the moist, warm environment created by the spaces between the nail bed and the toenail.
Additionally, the infection may be more severe in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes and HIV/AIDS, as well as those who wear tight or occlusive socks and shoes.
Toenail fungus usually has to be treated over the course of several months, and the treatments must be done consistently in order to be effective. Common treatments include antifungal ointments, medicines, creams, and even laser therapy.
It can take weeks or months of antifungal treatment before the fungus is eliminated, and in some cases, it cannot be effectively treated. The length of time needed to treat toenail fungus depends on the severity and type of the infection and the method of treatment used.
Even after a successful treatment, it can take a year or more for the nail to fully regrow and look healthy again.
Is toenail fungus a symptom of something else?
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a relatively common condition that affects the toenails. It typically occurs when certain types of fungi enter and grow on the nail and the surrounding skin.
In some cases, toenail fungus can be a symptom of something else, such as a weakened immune system or even a skin infection. It can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or psoriasis.
If you have toenail fungus and it does not seem to be improving, it is best to consult a physician to determine if there is an underlying cause that needs to be treated.
What medical condition causes toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails. It is principally caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that grows in warm and damp environments.
Other types of fungus, such as yeasts and molds, can also cause the condition. Toenail fungus can develop in one or more toenails and is usually contracted by coming into contact with the fungus in damp public areas such as gyms, swimming pools, and showers.
Once affected by toenail fungus, the nail may turn yellow, thick, and crumble. It can also be accompanied by a foul odor.
Underlying health conditions like diabetes, psoriasis, and circulation problems can increase the risk of developing toenail fungus. To properly treat toenail fungus, a combination of antifungal medications and regular nail trimming is often necessary.
To help prevent toenail fungus from occurring, it is important to keep the feet clean and dry, wear appropriate socks and shoes, and practice good hygiene. If toenail fungus continues to persist, consult with a medical provider to explore further treatment options.
What are the 3 most common causes of fungal nail infection?
The three most common causes of fungal nail infection are:
1. Wet or damp nails: Keeping your feet and nails consistently wet or damp, such as from sweaty socks, swimming frequently, or showering with open-toed shoes or sandals, can promote the growth of fungus.
2. Walking barefoot: Walking barefoot in public places such as locker rooms, swimming pools, or around outdoor pools can increase your risk of fungal infection because fungus thrives in dark, wet places.
3. Unsanitary nail tools: Using unsanitized nail clippers, nail files, emery boards, and other grooming tools can spread fungus from person to person, leading to a fungal nail infection.
Is toenail fungus caused by diabetes?
No, toenail fungus is not caused by diabetes. Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection caused by a variety of fungi. While people with diabetes may be more prone to developing fungal infections due to having chronically high blood glucose levels, diabetes is not the cause of toenail fungus.
Common causes of toenail fungus include a weakened immune system, contact with other people who have the infection, contact with contaminated objects, and wearing tight, closed-toed shoes or shoes that don’t allow the foot to breathe.
Toenail fungus can also develop as a side effect of certain medications, poor hygiene, and poor circulation caused by certain medical conditions. Treatment for toenail fungus can range from home remedies to prescription medications, depending on the severity of the infection.
Is it OK to live with toenail fungus?
No, it is not OK to live with toenail fungus. Toenail fungus is caused by a fungal infection, which is contagious and can spread from one person to another. If left untreated, toenail fungus can cause severe damage to the nails, resulting in the nails becoming discolored, thickened, and brittle.
It can also cause pain, including tingling, burning, or shooting sensations. Toenail fungus can also lead to serious infections, such as athletes foot and skin abscesses. It is important to see a doctor or other healthcare provider as soon as possible if you think you may have toenail fungus.
A doctor can diagnose the infection and provide treatment options that can help to eliminate it. Early treatment is important in order to prevent permanent damage to the nails and to reduce the risk of spreading the fungus to other individuals.