What Are Fungal Toenails? A Podiatrist Explains the Causes and Treatment
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A podiatrist explains what fungal toenails are, what causes them, and how to treat and prevent onychomycosis.
By Sophie McLellan, Co-Owner & Podiatrist, Little Big Feet Podiatry, Brisbane
Key Facts
- What it isOnychomycosis: a fungal infection of the nail that leaves it discoloured, thickened and deformed.
- Most at riskAdults over 60, people with diabetes or circulatory problems, and anyone often in sweaty shoes or barefoot in communal wet areas.
- Common symptomsA chalky white or off-yellow nail that thickens and deforms, sometimes leading to ingrown toenails.
- Primary treatmentPodiatrist diagnosis with a pathology sample, then topical lacquers, oral medication for extensive cases, or laser therapy, plus reducing the nail thickness.
What are fungal toenails?
Onychomycosis (fungal toenails) is a common nail condition affecting more than 10% of the adult population. Nail infections are more common in adults over 60 years of age, although people of any age may be affected by onychomycosis.
People with diabetes and/circulatory problems are more prone to developing nail infections. Typically the nail presents as discoloured (chalky white or off yellow), and it may become thickened and deformed, which can lead to further issues such as ingrowing toe-nails.
What causes fungal toenails?
Fungal spores thrive in warm moist environments. Some common environments predisposing one to fungal infections include:
- Sweaty socks and shoes / work boots
- Being barefoot in communal change rooms / bathrooms / pool deck
How are fungal toenails treated?
Fungal toenails may be mistaken as thick or gryphotic nails (without infection), so it is important to have a Podiatrist correctly diagnose your presentation. This is commonly done by taking a sample for pathology, which will correctly identify the offending pathogen/s. Once a fungal infection has been confirmed, your Podiatrist will discuss with your possible treatment options. Fungal nails can be recalcitrant and difficult to treat. There are a number of different treatment options, which will depend on the patient's health and compliance, as well as the severity of the infection (single toe or wide-spread). Some common treatment options include:
- Topical lacquers / ointments
- Oral medications (typically reserved for extensive onychomycosis)
- Laser therapy
Podiatrists may also assist by reducing the thickness of the nail plate, to improve the success rate of topical applications.
The Comfort Co Breakdown
Fungal toenails, in plainer English
Fungal toenails are caused by an overgrowth of fungus, often in warm, moist environments (like sweaty shoes). They can make nails thick, discoloured, and brittle. They don't go away on their own, so treating them early is crucial. Antifungal sprays, breathable socks, and proper hygiene can stop the spread and improve the appearance over time. Persistent infections may need professional podiatry treatment.
Written by The Comfort Co team.
The Comfort Co Solutions
While not always painful, a fungal toenail can be an unsightly blight that sticks around for years. The good news is that it is entirely treatable. Here is what we recommend while you get on top of it.
See a podiatrist first
For a fungal toenail we would always recommend going to a podiatrist straight off the bat. Yellow nails do not always mean fungus, and if you have got it wrong, over-the-counter treatments will not do anything. If you are sure and you have caught the infection early enough to not be severe, an antifungal cream or spray might do the job. We do not sell any at The Comfort Co yet, but Loceryl is a trusted brand available at most good pharmacies.
Let your feet breathe
Fungus thrives in warm, damp places, so the best thing you can do in the meantime is stop making it easy. Give your toes room to breathe. All of the socks at OS1st are moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial, which sorts out that fungal environment, and the OS1st sock range is designed to keep the area dry and airy on top of that. A roomy toe box helps too, and every pair across our range is designed with space at the front so your toes are not giving each other a group hug.
Comfort Co Pro Tip
Your fungus can become someone else's fungus very easily. Keep a separate nail care kit just for yourself, and be careful about sharing shoes or socks or walking barefoot in shared spaces.
Keep Reading
Quick questions
What causes fungal toenails?
Fungal toenails are caused by fungal spores that thrive in warm, moist environments. Sweaty socks and shoes, and going barefoot in communal change rooms, bathrooms and pool decks, all raise the risk.
Are fungal toenails contagious?
Yes. Fungus can spread from person to person, so it is worth keeping a separate nail care kit and being careful about sharing shoes, socks or walking barefoot in shared spaces.
Will a fungal toenail go away on its own?
No. Fungal toenails do not clear up by themselves, so treating them early gives the best result. Persistent infections may need professional podiatry treatment.
How are fungal toenails treated?
A podiatrist confirms the infection with a pathology sample, then treatment options include topical lacquers or ointments, oral medication for extensive cases, and laser therapy. Reducing the thickness of the nail can also improve results.
How can I prevent fungal toenails?
Keep your feet dry and cool, wear breathable moisture-wicking socks, give your toes room in the toe box, and avoid going barefoot in communal wet areas.
Sources
- DermNet. Fungal nail infections. dermnetnz.org
- Healthdirect Australia. Fungal nail infections. healthdirect.gov.au