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Nail Fungus
Mild
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of a fingernail or toenail. The nail may become thickened, discolored, brittle, crumbly, or distorted. The infection commonly develops gradually and may affect one or several nails. Toenails are affected more often than fingernails, and infection can sometimes spread to surrounding skin.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Nail fungus is usually not an emergency and often develops gradually. Seek medical assessment if the nail becomes painful, the infection spreads, the surrounding skin becomes inflamed, or treatment is unsuccessful. Prompt evaluation is appropriate when there is significant swelling, drainage, fever, or concern for another type of nail disease.
Symptoms
2
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of a fingernail or toenail. The nail may become thickened, discolored, brittle, crumbly, or distorted. The infection commonly develops gradually and may affect one or several nails. Toenails are affected more often than fingernails, and infection can sometimes spread to surrounding skin.
Symptoms 2
Daytime Sleepiness
Early Morning Awakening
Causes 2
Nail fungus is usually caused by fungi that infect the nail or the skin beneath it. Dermatophytes are the most common cause, although yeasts and other fungi can also be responsible. The infection may enter through small breaks in the skin or nail. It can spread through direct contact or contaminated floors, footwear, towels, or nail-care equipment.
Infection
Insulin Resistance
Risk Factors
Risk is increased by athlete’s foot, repeated exposure to moist environments, heavy sweating, tight footwear, minor nail injuries, diabetes, reduced circulation, weakened immunity, increasing age, and a previous history of nail fungus. Sharing nail clippers, towels, socks, or footwear can facilitate spread. Older adults are particularly susceptible because nail growth becomes slower and the nail structure changes with age.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is usually based on examination of the affected nail and surrounding skin. A healthcare professional may take a nail clipping, scraping, or sample from beneath the nail for microscopic examination or laboratory testing. Testing is useful because other conditions, including psoriasis or nail trauma, can resemble fungal infection. Identifying the organism can help guide treatment when necessary.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Keeping feet clean and dry, changing damp socks, wearing breathable footwear, treating athlete’s foot promptly, and avoiding shared nail-care equipment can reduce risk
Nails should be trimmed carefully and injuries should be avoided
People with diabetes or circulation problems should take particular care of their feet and seek medical advice for persistent nail changes
Prevention Guidance
Keeping feet clean and dry, changing damp socks, wearing breathable footwear, treating athlete’s foot promptly, and avoiding shared nail-care equipment can reduce risk. Nails should be trimmed carefully and injuries should be avoided. People with diabetes or circulation problems should take particular care of their feet and seek medical advice for persistent nail changes.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Protein-rich foods
Support nail health
Vegetables
Rich in nutrients
Fruits
Support recovery
Foods to Avoid
Sugary foods
May worsen fungal growth
Processed foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A fungal infection of the nails.
Discolored, thickened, or brittle nails.
Older adults and people with diabetes.
Yes, to nearby nails or skin.
With antifungal medications.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.