Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis, commonly referred to as a fungal nail infection, refers to a family of fungal infections that affect the fingernails and toenails. It is a common and often difficult to treat skin disorder. Onychomycosis and its subsequent complications are due to a wide range of agents, including dermatophytes, yeasts, molds, and non-dermatophyte mold organisms. This fungal infection can be quite uncomfortable and unsightly, but fortunately, it can be effectively treated. The most common symptoms of onychomycosis include thickening, distortion, discoloration, and crumbling of the nails. Additionally, nails can usually become dry, brittle, and separate from the nail bed. In most cases, the fungus that causes onychomycosis takes hold in a nail due to an injury or exposure to a moist environment. The fungus usually enters through the side of the nail, and then spreads, with the infection usually developing more out of sight beneath the nail. Although onychomycosis is primarily a cosmetic issue, it can cause physical discomfort and lead to other problems such as cellulitis if left untreated. Although diagnosis and treatment can be very challenging, successful treatment requires a combination of both topical and oral antifungal medications. Depending on the extent of the infection, this combination may be necessary for up to 12 months. However, there are also home care strategies that individuals can use to help reduce the symptoms and speed up the recovery process. These include keeping the nails clean and dry, avoiding artificial nails, and seeking treatment for any other conditions that can contribute to the infection, such as athlete’s foot.