Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is more than an embarrassing condition. It can permanently damage your nails and skin without proper care. At Bosque Foot and Ankle in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Stephanie Parks, DPM, Justin Ward, DPM, and the team provide comprehensive care for toenail fungus that includes topical medications, oral antibiotics, surgical interventions, and preventive tips. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is an infection that develops beneath the toenail. As it grows and festers, it eats away at the healthy nail. Treating the infection as soon as possible is essential to preserve the nail’s integrity.

While onychomycosis can affect the fingernails, it’s more common in toenails due to the warm and moist environment inside shoes. The fungus can spread to the surrounding nails without proper treatment, leading to further deterioration and potential complications.

What does toenail fungus look like?

Toenail fungus can change your nail’s color, shape, and strength. Common signs of toenail fungus include:

• Yellow or brown discoloration
• Thickening
• Crumbly texture
• Jagged or irregular shape
• Brittle or breaking
• Accumulated debris beneath the nail
• Separation from the nail bed

The nail can also begin to ooze pus if infected, causing a foul smell that can be noticeable without proper treatment.

Why do I keep getting toenail fungus?

Some people are more vulnerable to toenail fungus than others. Common risk factors for toenail fungus include:

Poor foot hygiene

Inadequate foot hygiene, such as not drying your feet thoroughly after exposure to moisture, can create an environment conducive to fungal growth. This is especially relevant for people who sweat excessively or wear closed shoes for extended periods.

Exposure to moist environments

Public swimming pools, locker rooms, and gyms are breeding grounds for toenail fungus due to their warm, moist environments.

Wearing infected footwear

Shoes and socks that have come into contact with the fungus can lead to reinfection. It’s crucial to regularly clean and disinfect footwear, especially if you’ve had a previous infection.

Weakened immune system

A compromised immune system, whether due to medical conditions like diabetes or immunosuppressive medications, can make individuals more susceptible to toenail fungus and increase the likelihood of recurrence.

Genetic predisposition

Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to fungal infections. If there is a family history of toenail fungus, there may be a higher risk of recurrence.

Trauma to the nails 

Injuries to the nails, such as stubbing or repetitive trauma, can create openings for fungi to enter and cause infection.

What are the most effective treatments for toenail fungus?

The treatments that the podiatrists at Bosque Foot and Ankle recommend for toenail fungus depend on the severity of your condition. The most effective toenail fungus treatments include:

• Topical antifungal medications
• Oral antibiotics
• Antifungal nail polish
• Laser therapy
• Partial or full nail removal

If the fungus is severe or recurrent, the team may remove the nail and apply antifungal medication directly to the skin to eliminate the infection at the source.

Call Bosque Foot and Ankle or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about toenail fungus.