Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the fingernails or toenails that most frequently appears as discoloured, thickened, and disfigured nails. It is commonly referred to as nail fungus and has many subtypes with various causes and treatments.
Nail fungus affects up to 10% of the population and can be caused by several different types of fungi. Here’s a quick guide to the types of onychomycoses that could be causing your nails to look and feel less than their best
Distal lateral subungual onychomycosis
Distal lateral subungual onychomycosis, commonly known as toenail fungus, affects millions of people around the world. In this condition, fungi invade the nail from the sides or edges of the nail bed, building up underneath and causing the nail to thicken and turn yellow. The condition is often uncomfortable, making it difficult for people to wear certain footwear or engage in activities such as swimming that require people to go barefoot. Left untreated, serious health problems such as preventing new healthy nails from growing or potentially causing skin infections nearby can arise. Fortunately, many safe fungal nail infection treatment practices are available to help fight off this pesky fungal infection so people can be back on their feet in no time.
White superficial onychomycosis
White superficial onychomycosis is a less severe form of toenail fungus that affects only the top layers of the nail plate. It is usually characterized by a few or multiple white patches or lines that develop along the surface of the nails, leading them to become discoloured and thicker. Although white superficial onychomycosis does not typically cause discomfort or pain for its sufferers, it can still be an unsightly condition, and its spread should not be overlooked. Transmission usually occurs from contaminated floors, showers, or nail care tools. In addition, it is common in environments where feet are exposed to heat and moisture, making it especially important to keep your feet dry.
Candida onychomycosis
Candida onychomycosis is a common fungal infection of the nails that affects both fingernails and toenails. It is caused by a type of yeast, Candida, the same strain that causes vaginal yeast infections. This infection typically starts as an area of white discolouration in the corner or edge of one or more nails before spreading to larger areas, becoming thicker and producing a yellow-orange colour. Other signs include crumbling or splitting at the nail’s edges. Treatment often involves antifungal drugs to remove the infected portion, but re-infection is common unless preventive measures, such as keeping the nails clean and dry, are taken.
Endonyx onychomycosis
Endonyx onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects only the upper layer of the nail plate as opposed to other types of infections that may affect the entire nail. Most endonyx onychomycosis cases are commonly caused by certain yeast forms rather than moulds or dermatophytes bacteria. Unfortunately, endonyx onychomycosis will usually begin to show noticeable signs, such as discolouration in areas that appear white, yellowish, or green tints. Over an extended period, nails become brittle and may eventually spread across to other parts of the affected nails if left untreated. There are measures available to tackle this issue, including prescription antifungal medications and laser treatments that are proven effective options for treating this condition.
Total dystrophic onychomycosis
Finally, total dystrophic onychomycosis is a severe fungal infection affecting the entire nail plate. Symptoms of total dystrophic onychomycosis often appear like discolouration, thickening, and crumbling around the nails’ edges. If left untreated, total dystrophic onychomycosis can become even more painful, requiring aggressive treatment with prescription-strength antifungal medications for successful treatment. When caught and treated early total dystrophic onychomycosis can be brought under control and effectively managed. It’s important to be aware of any changes in the texture or shape of your nails from their normal state and take the necessary steps to have them evaluated by a doctor if anything appears suspicious.
Conclusion
While all forms of toenail fungus might seem like an annoyance or worse, the good news is that all types are treatable with careful diagnosis and treatment plans tailored specifically for each condition. If you believe you have any fungal nail infection, don’t hesitate to see your doctor immediately so they can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and help you create a plan for treating your condition effectively.