Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, are surprisingly common. Around 1 in 10 people will deal with one at some point. And while it’s not the end of the world, these infections can be annoying, uncomfortable, and kind of gross if left untreated.
If you have noticed your nails looking thicker, yellowish, or crumbly, you might be dealing with a fungal infection.
Let’s break down the symptoms, what causes it, and how to treat it.
Symptoms of a Fungal Nail Infection
It usually starts small. Maybe you’ll notice a tiny spot of discoloration, or a nail that feels a little brittle. And then suddenly, it’s spread all over the nail.
Over time, you might notice:
- A yellow, white, or brown tint to the nail
- Thickening or distorted nail shape
- Crumbling edges
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
- A slightly funky smell
Most of the time, it’s not painful. But if you leave it untreated, the infection can worsen and even cause long-term damage to the nail or surrounding skin.
Causes of Nail Fungus
The most common cause of a nail fungal infection is warm and moist environments.
Fungal infections get into your nail bed through tiny cracks in the nail or surrounding skin, and then thrive in places like:
- Communal showers
- Public pools
- Locker rooms
- Sweaty shoes
You’re more likely to get an infection if you’re older, have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system.
Is It Contagious?
Yes. You can catch a fungal infection from someone else, from surfaces, and from reusing infected towels and tools.
That’s why it’s important to keep your feet clean and dry.
Treatment Options
There are many treatment paths for nail fungus, depending on how bad the infection is and how long it has been around.
Some of them include:
Topical Antifungal Treatments
This is where most people start. There are gels, creams, and sprays available without a prescription. If the infection is still mild, these might be enough.
Finding the best over the counter antifungal nail treatment can take a little trial and error. Some products are made to penetrate deeper into the nail bed, while others focus more on the surface.
Look for ingredients like terbinafine, clotrimazole, or undecylenic acid.
Oral Antifungal Medications
If the infection is stubborn or covers multiple nails, a doctor might prescribe oral medication.
These work faster and more effectively, but they can have side effects and interact with other medications.
Laser Therapy
Some dermatologists now offer laser treatment to get rid of the fungus. It may be pricier, but it’s great for people who don’t respond to other medications.
When to See a Doctor
If your nail is completely discolored, thickened, or painful, or if nothing over the counter is helping after a few months, call in a professional.
They can do a proper diagnosis and recommend a stronger treatment plan.
Conclusion
Fungal nail infections are uncomfortable, but with the right tools and a little patience, they are manageable.
The sooner you start treating it, the better your chances of getting your nails back to normal.
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