Understanding the Risk Factors for Toenail Fungus: Who Is Most at Risk?

Dr. James Hurst, a board-certified physician in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery at Centreville Foot Ankle Sports Medicine in Centreville, VA, is here to help with your suspected toenail fungus.

Foot health is a factor in overall body health. When you notice something is wrong with the appearance of your toenails, it is best to see our podiatrist quickly to determine what is wrong.

What Causes Toenail Fungus?

A dermatophyte causes fungus and is a known mold that uses your body’s protein to thrive. When this condition occurs, it is called tinea unguium. Tinea unguium will show these signs in appearance.

• Chalky or cloudy toenail beds
• The nail bed will be white, brown, or yellow in appearance
• Cracked or broken nail
• Lumpy or thickened nail bed
• Your nail bed separates from the base of your nail, leaving a blank space in between

Who Is At Risk For Nail Fungus? 

Certain conditions put some people more at risk for nail fungus than others. Below are those who are susceptible to fungus.

• Those over the age of 60
• Diabetics
• People with autoimmune disorders
• People with Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Those individuals with peripheral vascular disease
• Those susceptible to athlete’s foot 

The Treatment of Nail Fungus 

A podiatrist in Centreville, VA, can confirm toenail fungus at a visit. Our doctor may take a sample from under your nail and examine it under a microscope. He may also send the sample to a laboratory to grow a culture and identify what medication would be effective in treatment.

We have medication options to use in the treatment of fungal infections.

• Oral Antifungals — These slowly kill the fungus in your system over several months. These medications may not be for everyone as they can cause liver issues.
• Laser — Treatment with a laser isn’t the first treatment option as it is only sometimes effective but may work in some cases.
• Topical — Rubbed right into the nailbed, this medication works overtime and is well-paired with oral medication.

It is essential to treat your fungus quickly, as it can spread to other areas of your body, such as your other toes, scalp, groin area, and the skin of your feet, causing dry, itchy, red skin. 

After Treatment Action

Prevention is the best cure. Avoid going barefoot in public places like shower rooms, clean your tools before foot care, and completely dry your feet after a shower. 

If you have diabetes, it is wise to maintain professional foot care. For the best foot care, call Dr. Hurst at Centreville Foot Ankle Sports Medicine in Centreville, VA, at 703-830-3338.