Fungal Toenails Specialist

What are fungal toenails?

Fungal toenails, a condition known to doctors as onychomycosis, describes the presence of a fungal infection occurring in or under a patient’s toenails. Most often it is the bacteria trichophyton which causes the infection. The infection itself typically occurs because the nails have been kept in wet or moist surroundings without the correct care including a group shower. Athletes can be more vulnerable to fungal toenails because they use these facilities and because their feet are continually kept in tight, sweaty shoes. Those with an undermined immune system can also be more vulnerable to fungal infections in the toenails.

Are there different types of fungal toenails?

There are three types of onychomycosis:

• The infection starts at the root of the nail, finger or toe, and progresses downward toward the tip of the digit. This is called proximal subungual onychomycosis. While not as common, a person with an undermined immune system can have an increased risk of developing the infection.
• An infection which progresses from the digit’s end to the root of the nail is referred to as a distal subungual onychomycosis infection. Typically affecting the toenails, this is the most common type of infection.
• An infection which presents with the yeast candida is referred to as yeast onychomycosis. This more commonly affects the fingernails. It can lead to the yellowing of the nails and the can also turn white, brown, or become thick. Those with this infection typically also have yeast in their mouths or have a persistent nail infection known to as chronic paronychia.

How are fungal toenails treated? 

Topical medications and creams are frequently employed to treat mild fungal toenail infections. When the infection is more severe, oral medications can be much more effective. The most common oral medication prescribed is Lamisil. Photodynamic therapy, employing a light-activated chemical to treat the infection, and laser therapy can also be effective. Laser therapy is created to target the infected tissue while leaving the healthy tissue unharmed.