Athlete's Foot & Fungal Nails

What are fungal nails and athlete's foot?

Fungal nails, also known as onychomycosis, are infections of the toenails caused by fungi that grow beneath or within the nail. Over time, the nails may become thickened, discolored, brittle, and difficult to trim.

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of the skin that commonly affects the areas between the toes and the soles of the feet. It often causes itching, redness, burning, and peeling skin.

Because both conditions are caused by similar types of fungi, it is common for patients to develop athlete's foot and fungal nails at the same time.

What causes fungal nails and athlete's foot?

Fungal infections develop when fungi enter the skin or nail through small cracks or injuries. Several factors can increase your risk, including:

• Walking barefoot in public showers, locker rooms, or swimming pools
• Excessive sweating
• Tight-fitting shoes
• Warm, moist environments
• Nail trauma or injury
• Diabetes
• Poor circulation
• A weakened immune system
• Increasing age
• A history of athlete's foot or fungal nail infections

Fungal infections can spread from the skin to the nails and from one nail to another if left untreated.

What are the symptoms of fungal nails and athlete's foot?

Common symptoms include:

• Thickened toenails
• Yellow, white, or brown discoloration of the nails
• Brittle or crumbly nails
• Nails that separate from the nail bed
• Itching or burning between the toes
• Redness or scaling of the skin
• Dry, cracked, or peeling skin
• Foul odor
• Pain or tenderness
• Difficulty trimming the nails

Symptoms may gradually worsen over time without treatment.

How are fungal nails and athlete's foot diagnosed?

Your physician will perform a thorough examination of your feet and toenails and may recommend additional testing to confirm the diagnosis.

Diagnostic tests may include:

• Nail clippings
• Skin scrapings
• Nail cultures
• Microscopic examination
• Laboratory analysis

An accurate diagnosis helps ensure that you receive the most effective treatment.

How are fungal nails and athlete's foot treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and your overall health. Your physician may recommend:

• Prescription topical antifungal medications
• Oral antifungal medications
• Antifungal creams, sprays, or powders
• Routine nail debridement and thinning
• Treatment of infected shoes and socks
• Proper foot hygiene and skin care
• Keeping the feet clean and dry
• Wearing breathable footwear

In severe cases of fungal nail infection, temporary or permanent nail removal may be recommended.

Because toenails grow slowly, treatment of fungal nails can take several months. Treating athlete's foot at the same time is important to reduce the risk of reinfection.

How can fungal infections be prevented?

You can reduce your risk of fungal infections by:

• Wearing sandals in public showers and locker rooms
• Keeping your feet clean and dry
• Changing socks regularly
• Wearing breathable shoes
• Avoiding walking barefoot in public areas
• Using antifungal sprays or powders when appropriate
• Avoiding sharing shoes, socks, or nail clippers

With early diagnosis and proper treatment, most fungal infections can be successfully treated and prevented from recurring.

If you have thick, discolored toenails, itching, peeling skin, or persistent foot irritation, the specialists at Metropolitan Foot and Ankle Specialists can help determine the cause and recommend the treatment option that is right for you. To request a personalized consultation, call Metropolitan Foot and Ankle Specialists today.