Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • Understanding Onychomycosis
  • Common Symptoms
  • Possible Complications

What Is Onychomycosis and How Does It Affect Your Nails?

What Is Onychomycosis and How Does It Affect Your Nails?

The Big Picture

Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection that affects your nails, causing discoloration and damage. Understanding its causes and symptoms can help in managing this persistent issue.
Contents
  • Understanding Onychomycosis
  • Common Symptoms
  • Possible Complications

Understanding Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is a chronic fungal infection that impacts the toenails and fingernails. It's most commonly caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. While it primarily affects adults, children can also be susceptible. Key symptoms include nail discoloration, thickening, and separation from the nail bed.

Common Symptoms

Nail discoloration ranging from white to brown is often the first sign of onychomycosis. As the infection progresses, nails may thicken, become brittle, or even crumble at the edges. This can be accompanied by discomfort, especially when wearing shoes or performing activities that put pressure on the nails.
Onychomycosis is a chronic fungal infection affecting the toenails and fingernails, primarily caused by dermatophytes.

Possible Complications

If left untreated, onychomycosis can lead to more serious complications such as bacterial infections, especially in individuals with diabetes or weakened immune systems. The condition can also cause significant pain and lead to social discomfort due to the appearance of the nails.

FAQs

What causes onychomycosis?

Onychomycosis is caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

How can you identify onychomycosis?

Look for nail discoloration, thickening, and brittleness.

Can onychomycosis be painful?

Yes, it can cause significant discomfort.

Is onychomycosis common in children?

It's more common in adults but can affect children too.

Wrapping Up

Onychomycosis is a pesky nail condition that requires attention to prevent complications.
Next steps: Consult Doctronic for personalized advice on managing onychomycosis.
Additional References
  1. Lipner SR, Scher RK. Onychomycosis: Clinical overview and diagnosis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2019; 80:835.
  2. Sigurgeirsson B, Baran R. The prevalence of onychomycosis in the global population: a literature study. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2014; 28:1480.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.