Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis represents approximately 50% of all nail disorders. Onychomycosis is far more common on the toenail than it is on the fingernail. It may be associated with trauma to the nail and is commonly seen in association with tinea pedis. The disease, which causes the nails to become thickened, hard to cut and often painful, is worsened by moisture, warmth, trauma, communal bathing and other activities that lead to the exposure of fungi. Those who suffer from the disease cite a substantial negative effect on their quality of life. Nevertheless, the perception still persists in the minds of many physicians that onychomycosis is more of a cosmetic nuisance than a significant disease.

It is thickened, yellowish or discolored toenails; toenails become difficult to cut. The toenail may separate from the nail bed, and may begin to crumble. Without treatment, the condition may continue without pain, or may progress over time, resulting in nails that become so thick that they cannot be cut using conventional pedicure equipment, or in the formation of abscesses under the nail, causing pain when the patient puts on footwear or attempts activities that put pressure on the toes.

A change in nail color or texture, while seemingly only annoying at first, is something that should be immediately addressed by a doctor. Waiting only allows the infection to accelerate, and can add months to treatment time.

The fungus that causes mycotic nails is extremely difficult to control. It can be picked up in many ways - by wearing shoes that harbor the organism, by walking barefoot in areas where fungus is prevalent (showers, and locker rooms are often the culprits, but even carpets and floor surfaces in the household can harbor the fungus), by continuing to wear shoes and/or socks that have become wet, through previous injury to the toe or toenail that opens a path for the fungus, by wearing improperly fitted shoes, or shoes that are too tight, too narrow or too shallow - or in any number of other ways. One of the problems with treating onychomycosis is that the fungus that causes it is difficult - if not impossible - to eliminate from the environment.

There is very little that is available over the counter will even be able to make a dent in the case of a fungal nail infection. As was previously mentioned, these are tough to cure, and won't respond to most methods. Remember - the more quickly you get the jump on a fungal infection, the better the likelihood that it can be treated successfully. Prescription oral anti-fungal drugs, such as Sporanox, Diflucan or Lamisil can be used to fight the infection. Be aware, however, that because this is one tough infection, there is a high relapse rate, and many patients may require a second course of treatment. There is also a brush-on lacquer (Penlac) that can be used with success. In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected nail.