Fungal Toenail Infection

A fungal toenail infection is called onychomycosis. It can begin as a spot under the nail that is white or yellow. There are medications to treat fungal infections, although they can be difficult to eliminate.

Symptoms

• Symptoms include a thickened nail that is misshapen, dull, brittle or crumbly and a dark color underneath the nail. You may experience pain and notice a foul smell to the nail, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Cause

• The Mayo Clinic indicates that a fungal toenail infection is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, damp areas. You may contract a fungal infection from walking barefoot in public showers or around swimming pools. Toenails are more commonly affected than fingernails due to the wearing of shoes, creating a moist place.

Risk Factors

• According to the Mayo Clinic, older adults are more susceptible and men are more often affected than women. Other risk factors include heavy perspiration, socks that do not allow ventilation or absorb moisture, or having other conditions such as diabetes, poor circulation, athlete's foot, psoriasis, a weak immune system or an injury to your nail or skin.

Treatment

• There are over-the-counter products available to treat fungal toenail infections, but according to the Mayo Clinic, they are not very successful treatments. Oral antifungal medications may be prescribed, such as Lamisil or Sporanox. Topical medications and antifungal nail lacquer may also be helpful. In severe infections, you may need to have your nail removed.

Home Remedies

• The Mayo Clinic indicates that you can soak your feet daily for 15 to 20 minutes in a solution of two parts warm water and one part vinegar. Application of Vick VapoRub has been suggested as well, however there is no evidence that either of these remedies will work.

Prevention

• Prevention measures include keeping your nails trimmed and clean, using an antifungal powder or spray, wearing absorbent socks and not going barefoot in public environments.