Just take a moment to think about your feet and all of the hard work and stress they endure
on a daily basis. The truth is that many of us take them for granted and don’t give them the
care and attention they deserve until an uncomfortable or unsightly problem arises.
Besides the 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles, present in each foot, your
toenails serve to cover and protect each of your toes. In much the same way as the other
delicate structures in your feet are vulnerable to injury and disease, your toenails are as
well. In fact, 5% of the population in the United States, are affected by toenail problems
every year. Three of the most common toenail ailments seen by podiatrists include ingrown
toenails, toenail fungus, and toenail trauma.
Fungal nail infections are very common in adults and account for nearly half of all nail
disorders. Technically known as onychomycosis, fungal nail infections can affect both your
fingernails and toenails, but are most frequently seen in the toes. While the infection is a
slow-growing one, a nail fungus can eventually cause the overlying nail to discolor, thicken,
change texture, become increasingly brittle, break and even detach from the nail bed.
In the beginning, a toenail fungus may feel like just an ugly and embarrassing cosmetic
issue. However, left untreated an increasingly disfigured toenail can cause discomfort and
irritation, especially while wearing shoes or walking. Not only that, fungal nail infections can
spread to the other nails. If a diseased toenail breaks, it can also pierce the skin thereby
allowing bacteria to enter, which can lead to a more serious type of infection.
This is especially dangerous for individuals who have diabetes or a compromised immune
system. For all of these reasons, it is a good idea to visit your podiatrist at the first sign of
any discoloration, thickening or deformity of your toenails.
The microscopic fungi responsible for toenail fungus and conditions like athlete’s foot thrive
in warm, wet environments. This is why places like gyms, saunas, locker rooms, showers
and pools, where people walk barefoot are frequent sources of these infections.
Sweaty feet housed in shoes and socks without adequate airflow are also considered
breeding grounds. Sharing shoes and socks is never a good idea as fungal spores are
harbored in these items and the infections are highly contagious.
While anyone can get a fungal nail infection, certain factors can increase an individual’s risk
of developing the problem. Older adults as well as individuals who have diabetes, peripheral
vascular disease or impaired immune systems are more susceptible to toenail fungus. In
addition, genetics, nail trauma, a history of smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, poor foot
hygiene, frequently sweaty feet or athlete’s foot can also put a person at greater risk of
developing onychomycosis.
As toenail fungus can be difficult to cure, it is best to seek out professional care with your
podiatrist. Although a fungal nail infection can often be identified by its appearance, other
conditions can produce a similar look. An accurate diagnosis is essential for proper care.
Toenail fungus can be challenging to treat because your nails receive very little blood
supply and grow slowly. However, your podiatrist can offer you the latest and most effective
methods of care including the newest generations of topically applied medications, oral
antifungal drugs, laser and surgical procedures. Your podiatrist will consider every aspect of
your case in determining the best approach to care.
By taking simple preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of developing a fungal nail
infection. Remembering to wash your hands after contacting a person with a nail infection,
a good foot hygiene regimen, wearing socks that whisk away sweat and not going barefoot
in high-risk areas are just some of the ways to protect the health of your feet. Of course,
the absolute best way to protect your toenails and the health of your feet is to combine
these steps with seeing your podiatrist for care.
Recent Comments