Fungal Nails

Fungal toenails affect about 20% of the population. If your toenails look discolored or unsightly because of a fungus, turn to Prime Foot and Ankle Care in South Brunswick, New Jersey. Skilled podiatrist Nrupa Shah, DPM, diagnoses and treats fungal nails to restore the health, function, and appearance of your toenails. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Shah by calling the office or booking an appointment online today. 

What are fungal nails?

Fungal nails are toenails affected by fungus, which alters the appearance of the affected nail and may spread to other areas if not treated. Toenail fungus is commonly caused by a type of mold called a dermatophyte. Fungus can also affect your fingernails. It may enter a nail through a cut or crack in your skin.

What are the symptoms of fungal nails?

Fungal nail symptoms include:

• White, brown, or yellow toenails
• Brittle, ragged, or crumbled nails
• Cloudy or chalky nails
• Thickened toenails
• Misshapen nails
• Nails that separate from the nail bed
• Breaks or cracks in your nails
• Unsightly nails
• Smelly toenails

Fungal nails aren’t usually painful. Toenail fungus sometimes spreads to other areas of your body, such as between your toes, groin area, or scalp. 

What are the risk factors for fungal nails?

Fungal nail risk factors include:

• Being over 60
• Diabetes
• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Wearing poorly ventilated shoes
• Athlete’s foot
• Nail injuries
• Psoriasis
• Poor blood circulation
• Peripheral vascular disease (PAD)
• Weakened immune system
• Sharing socks or shoes with other people
• Walking barefoot in public areas, such as locker rooms and community showers

About 50% of people over 70 may have toenail fungus. It can spread from person to person through direct contact. Nail fungi prefer moist, dark, and warm areas. 

How are fungal nails diagnosed?

Dr. Shah diagnoses fungal nails by examining your toenails, discussing your symptoms, and reviewing your medical history. She might take a small sample from under the affected nail and analyze it under a microscope to determine if a nail scraping grows fungus on a culture. This helps identify the type of fungus that’s present and how to best treat your condition. 

How are fungal nails treated?

Your customized fungal nail treatment plan may consist of:

• Watchful waiting
• Oral antifungal medications
• Topical medicines
• Laser treatments
• Nutritional supplements
• Nail surgery

It’s important to keep your feet clean and dry. Avoid sharing personal care items with other people and don’t walk barefoot in community areas. Wear comfortable, well-ventilated shoes and protect your feet from trauma. Avoid ripping or tearing your toenails — trim them straight across using a clean toenail clipper. 

Schedule a fungal nail evaluation at Prime Foot and Ankle Care by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.