Fungal Nail Infection

A fungal nail infection, medically known as Onychomycosis, is a common condition that occurs when a fungus invades a fingernail, a toenail, or the nail bed beneath it. This type of infection can affect both toenails and fingernails but is more frequent in toenails. The various fungi that lead to nail infections typically include dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte molds. These organisms thrive in warm, moist environments, making nail beds an ideal habitat. The infection often begins as a yellow or white spot under the tip of the nail and progresses to cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail as the fungus penetrates deeper into the nail structure.

Symptoms of fungal nail infection include nail discoloration, thickening, distortion in shape, and sometimes pain. While anyone can get a fungal nail infection, certain factors increase the risk, such as aging, reduced blood circulation, heavy perspiration, history of athlete's foot, walking barefoot in damp communal areas, minor nail injuries, and a compromised immune system. Diagnosis is confirmed through laboratory examination of a nail clipping, which identifies the type of fungus. Treatment options for onychomycosis include oral antifungal medication, topical treatments, laser therapy, and in severe cases, surgical nail removal, though the infection can be stubborn and recurrent.