Nail Fungus and Pedicures

Nail fungus is an unsightly and uncomfortable condition usually caused by one of three microorganisms called dermatophytes. These same fungal organisms can also cause athlete's foot and jock itch.

Pedicures

• People acquire nail fungus infections from pedicures when the salon worker fails to thoroughly disinfect all equipment or provide new sterilized tools for each new customer. Anyone who previously used the equipment or tools and had a foot fungus infection could have left spores behind to infect others.

Symptoms

• A nail fungus acquired from a pedicure makes the toenail look yellow or brown and thickened. In some individuals, particularly those with a weak immune system, it can become painful.

Treatment

• Oral medications and topical medications are available to treat toenail fungus. However, it may take up to a year to see effects because a new toenail must grow out to replace the one damaged by the fungus.

Prevention

• The best prevention for a nail fungus infection from a pedicure is to ask about the salon's sterilization procedures and to provide your own pedicure tools that you never share with anyone else.

Warning

• If left untreated, toenail fungus can lead to secondary infections by bacteria.