Have you ever noticed how your toenails suddenly look different? They become discolored, brittle, and bumpy.
If so, you aren’t alone. Toenail fungus is one of the most common skin infections in humans.
In this post, we will discuss the 7 stages of toenail fungus: causes, prevention and treatment.
Early Signs of Fungal Toenail Infection
The signs of fungal toenail infection may include unusual white or yellow streaks or spots in the nail, crumbling along the edges or tips, flaking, increased distortion of nail shape, and foot odor.
The initial signs of fungal toenail infection are very subtle. Sometimes, it takes a long time for symptoms to appear. It is very common for people to overlook fungal toenail infections until it becomes a problem.
The most reliable way to diagnose toenail fungus is to have a professional do a fungal nail scan.
7 Stages of Fungal Nail Infection
The 7 stages of toenail fungus are: 1) Early stage, 2) Moderate stage, 3) Severe stage, 4) Late stage, 5) Remission stage, 6) Predisposition stage, and 7) Progressive stage.
In the early stages of toenail fungus infection, apply a fungicide every day and soak the nails in a solution for 10 minutes. If symptoms worsen or spread to the whole nail, then treat with topical corticosteroids as needed. If the infection is not treated at this early stage it may progress to the moderate or severe stages. If symptoms persist after treatment in the early stages, it is best to seek medical advice.
- Early stage – Apply a fungicide and soak the toenails for 10 minutes every day.
- Moderate stage – Apply a fungicide every two days, soak the toenails for 10 minutes every day, and apply a topical corticosteroid if needed.
- Severe stage – Apply a fungicide every day, soak the toenails for 10 minutes every day, and apply a topical corticosteroid if needed.
- Late stage – Apply a fungicide every day, soak the toenails for 10 minutes every other day, and apply a topical corticosteroid if needed.
- Remission stage – Apply a fungicide every other day, soak the toenails for 10 minutes every day, and apply a topical corticosteroid if needed.
- Predisposition stage – There is no known treatment at this time.
- Progressive stage – There is no known treatment at this time.
Top 5 Signs Your Toenail Fungus Has Gone Nuclear
1. Nail Color Changes
If you notice any of the following signs of toenail fungus, it’s important to see a doctor: your nails change color, shape, or texture; the nail becomes thick and painful; or the nail turns abnormally thick and brittle.
If you notice any of the following signs in your nails, it is important to see a doctor:
- The color changes from a healthy pink or white to an odd yellow or brown
- The nail becomes thick and brittle
- The nail detached from the bed and starts to spread on surrounding skin
2. Nail Position Changes
If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to see a doctor:
- Your nails become brittle and break easily
- Your nail becomes soft and chalky, and starts to crumble away
- Your nail starts to curl downward or upward
3. Nail Texture Changes
The nail changes indicative of toenail fungus can include a change in texture or color. If untreated, nail fungus can grow and become more serious.
Treatment plans vary depending on the severity of the infection and may include medication or surgery. The early stages of toenail fungus are the best time to start treatment.
If untreated, the fungus will spread and the whole nail may become yellow or other odd colors. Treatment during the early stages will prevent further damage to the nail and reduce the chance of severe symptoms later on.
The nail changes that indicate toenail fungus are present are brittle and break easily. The fungus is changing the composition of the nail, which is causing it to become soft and chalky.
If you have a change in texture or color, such as becoming brittle or breaking easily, it could be indicative of toenail fungus. Treatments may vary depending on the severity of the infection, but may include medication or surgery. Early stage treatment is key to preventing further damage and reducing the chance of severe symptoms later on.
4. Nail Smell Changes
If your toenail fungus is causing bad smells, easy breakage, and a soft or chalky nail, it may be time to seek treatment. A topical treatment called an antifungal cream or oral medicine usually clears up the fungus.
If your feet smell bad, it’s probably fungus.
If your nails become brittle and break easily, it’s a sign the infection is changing the composition of the nail.
If your nails become soft and chalky and start to crumble away, it’s a sign the infection is getting serious.
5. Nail Sensation Changes
The symptoms of toenail fungus can include a change in nail color and texture, as well as detachment of the nail from the nail bed. The fungus-infested nail becomes abnormally thick and brittle, and can spread to surrounding skin and nails. If untreated, the fungus can spread and worsen in severity.
If your nails become brittle and break easily, it’s a sign that you have toenail fungus.
In its early stages, nail fungus infections are only visible with a texture or color change. If the infection becomes severe, the nails will become soft and chalky and crumble away.
The early stages of toenail fungus are the best time to treat it. If untreated, the fungus can spread and worsen in severity.
Signs Your Toenail Fungus Has Become a Threat
These warning signs indicate your toenail fungus has progressed to a serious level:
- The nail becomes thickened and deformed.
- The nail starts to crumble and break apart.
- The nail becomes discolored, often yellow or brown.
- The nail becomes brittle and starts to split.
- There is pain and discomfort associated with the nail.
- The nail becomes thick, red, and shiny.
- The nail falls off in large chunks.
- There is pus under the nail.
- The fungus is spreading down the toe bone (metatarsal).
- You develop a severe headache or fever as a result of the fungus spreading to your brain or heart.
If you notice any of these signs and you have toenail fungus, consult with a doctor immediately! Treatment options include antifungal medications and/or surgery to remove the infected nail bed
What Are The Causes of Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is caused by a number of things, including stubbed toes or an ingrown toenail. Toenail fungus can be a bother to deal with, and can cause pain and other issues.
Toenail fungus is caused by a pathogen that can be found almost anywhere. Toenail fungus can be contracted in a variety of ways, and in some cases, it starts as a result of an injury to the nail bed. Toenail fungus can be debilitating and even painful.
Diabetics are more likely to get toenail fungus, as they are already more likely to get infections. Dermatophytes are the fungus that cause toenail fungal infections. Dermatophytes need protein from keratin to grow, and this is the main reason they cause most toenail fungal infections. Onychomycosis is a specific type of onychomycosis caused by dermatophytes. 90% of onychomycotic foot infections are caused by dermatophytes.
What to Do About Your Black Toenails
Picture this: you’re wearing open-toed shoes and look down to see one of your toenails turned black. You probably have a bruise under the nail if you notice this discoloration. Here’s how to treat it.
If you have a black toenail, it’s important to take care of it so it doesn’t become infected. There are several steps you can take to prevent infection, and once an infection does occur, there are some treatments available. If you’re unsure about your symptoms, it is always a good idea to have them checked out by a health care provider.
If self-care steps haven’t helped, see a health care provider.
If nails become increasingly discolored, thickened, or misshapen, talk to your health care provider.
If you have any of the following conditions, see a health care provider: diabetes, bleeding around the nails, swelling or pain around the nails, difficulty walking.
The first signs of a toenail infection are unusual white or yellow streaks or spots; crumbling; flaking and increased foot odor.
Treatment for toenail infections depends on the type of infection and the severity.
If you are unsure of your symptoms, it is always a good idea to have them checked out.
Trauma to the nail can be caused by a number of things but fungal infection marks will gradually change shape and grow over time
What Are Prevention Methods for Toenail Fungus?
There are many different methods that can be used to prevent toenail fungus, such as the following:
- Drying well: keeping feet and nails dry will help to prevent fungus from growing.
- Applying an antifungal foot powder: using a powder that contains an antifungal agent will help to prevent fungus from developing.
- Moisturizing nails: keeping nails moisturized will keep them from cracking and may help to prevent fungus from developing.
- Trimming nails: leaving nails trimmed shorter helps to avoid fungal overgrowth.
- Wearing absorbent socks: wearing socks that are absorbent can help to stop the spread of fungus.
- Cleaning and disinfecting nail clippers: cleaning and disinfecting nail clippers before and after each use helps to prevent the spread of fungus.
- Choosing shoes that breathe: choosing shoes that allow your feet to breathe can help to keep your feet dry and free from fungal infection.
Treatments for Toenail Fungus
The treatments for toenail fungus include trimming and scraping the fungus away, applying medicines directly to the nails, or systemic treatments that work throughout the body.
Treatment can take 12 to 18 months for nails to grow out, and it is important to follow the treatment instructions carefully to get the best results. If more-aggressive treatment is required, your dermatologist may prescribe antifungal pills for the toenail fungus.
Side effects from medicines can be mild but can include redness and swelling, an ingrown nail, and stinging or burning when applied. Topical ointments such as EMUAID® are popular with users, judging by the amazing EMUAID® nail fungus reviews online. Oral antifungal medication must be taken for two months in order to cure an infection under the nails. Systemic medicines are more effective when used in combination, so if systemic treatments don’t work your dermatologist may recommend removing the nail.
Toenail fungus is a difficult condition to treat and research is ongoing to find new and better methods.
A healthcare provider, such as a dermatologist or podiatrist, can discuss your treatment options and help determine if any are necessary.
How long does toenail fungus treatment take?
Toenail fungus can be resistant to treatment but with the right treatment it can be cleared up.
Toenails usually grow at a rate of 2mm per month so it can take up to a few months for the fungus to be treated. Once the fungus is treated many people can get rid of the infection.
To clear the fungus it is important to use the treatment prescribed, apply the medicine for as long as prescribed, and follow up with your dermatologist. Clearing the fungus may take several months and the nail may look unhealthy during this time. It is important to keep follow-up appointments to ensure that the fungus is cleared.
Signs the Treatment Is Working
If the fungus is dying and the color is changing, you are doing well. However, if the fungus is not dying and the color remains unchanged, it’s important to continue treating it as directed by your doctor.
If new nail growth begins to grow at the base of your nails and this growth is different from the prior infection, then treatment may be progressing successfully. Ultimately, when all nail tissue has grown out and healed, you will be clear that the treatment has been successful.
- If the fungus is shrinking and the color is going away, the treatment is working.
- If your nails are getting thicker, it’s a sign the treatment is working.
- Eventually, new nail growth will show at the base of your nails.
- The new growth should be healthy and look different from the infected nail.
- The line between healthy and infected nails should become clearer over time.
Diagnosis
Your healthcare provider will primarily rely on a physical examination of the toenails to diagnose toenail fungus. They will check for a few things such as:
- If nail scrapings are available, they may be examined under a microscope to help identify the type of fungus.
- A toenail sample may be sent to a laboratory for a fungal culture to confirm the diagnosis.
- To diagnose toenail fungus, your provider may recommend other tests depending on your individual health history and symptoms.
How Long Does It Take to Cure Fungal Toenails?
Toenail fungus can take a few weeks to a few months to clear up depending on the severity.
There are several stages of toenail fungus, and each requires a different treatment. Treatment can take several weeks, but results are usually good.
Treatment starts with a consultation to discuss your symptoms and diagnose the fungus. Medications are then prescribed to destroy the fungus. Nails are then trimmed and shaped to prevent further infection.
You may need to wear a protective bandage on your nails until they are healed. You may need to continue treatment for a while to make sure the fungus is completely gone.
Can you prevent recurring toenail fungus?
The causes of toenail fungus are unknown, but it is common and there are many things you can do to prevent infection. The best way to take care of your feet is to consult a podiatrist.
Fungal toenails can be treated with a range of options, including topical and oral medications. Clean your nails regularly and dry them well. Apply antifungal foot powder and moisturize your nails.
Consider applying a nail hardener. Keep your nails trimmed to prevent toenail fungus. Wear absorbent socks or change your socks throughout the day. Choose shoes made of materials that breathe. Disinfect your nail clippers after each use.
Discard old shoes or treat them with disinfectants or antifungal powders. Wear footwear in pool areas and locker rooms. Choose a nail salon that uses sterilized manicure tools for each customer; and avoid wearing artificial nails.
If you are not sure if you have onychomycosis, you should ask your doctor for a diagnosis. Toenail fungus can be treated with topical or device-based treatments, including topical creams and injections.
How Diabetes Can Take a Toll on Your Feet
Diabetes comes with numerous challenges, especially when it comes to keeping your blood sugar under control. But did you know it can also cause serious issues with your feet? Here’s what you need to know to avoid a problem.
Diabetes can lead to complications in the feet and surrounding areas, including nail fungus. Diabetes can also lead to other serious infections if the immune system is suppressed.
The effects of diabetes on feet can include:
- Nail fungus
- Infections that spread beyond the feet
- Complications such as nerve damage and amputation
Toenail Trimming Tips for Diabetics
The first thing you think of when you think about diabetes probably isn’t feet, but the fact is, people with diabetes need to be especially diligent in caring for their feet. Here, we explain why and offer tips on how to look after your feet.
If you have diabetes, you should see a foot specialist. Toenail fungus is common, but it’s usually not harmful. Even if toenail fungus is treated, it often returns.
Toenail fungus can be a problem for diabetics, and it’s important to address it early on in order to reduce the risk of more serious problems. It’s important to practice good hygiene and foot care, and get regular foot exams if you have diabetes.
Toenail trimming for diabetics is critical because overgrown nails can damage the feet over time and lead to other health complications such as nerve damage or even amputation. Proper nail trimming technique involves cutting just the tip of the nail with clippers so that infection doesn’t set in and cause further pain or even loss of limb due to tissue necrosis (death of tissue)
You can also get regular foot exams if you have diabetes, which can help spot problems earlier and potentially save your feet from more serious damage.
FAQs
What Are the Risk Factors for Toenail Fungus?
There are several risk factors for toenail fungus, including: age, diabetes, athlete’s foot, psoriasis, and a weak immune system. Toenail fungus is more common in older adults, because the nails grow slower and are thicker, making them more susceptible to fungus.
People with diabetes also have a higher risk of developing toenail fungus, because the condition can cause circulation problems that make the nails more susceptible to infection.
Athlete’s foot is another common risk factor, because the condition can cause the nails to become cracked and allow fungus to enter.
Psoriasis is also a risk factor, because the condition can cause the nails to become thick and yellow. Finally, people with a weak immune system are more likely to develop toenail fungus, because the condition can make the nails more susceptible to infection.
What Other Skin Problems Are Associated With Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus can often lead to other skin problems, such as athlete’s foot. This is because the fungus that causes toenail fungus can also infect the skin. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes the skin on the feet to become red, itchy, and flaky. If you have toenail fungus, you are more likely than someone without to enail fungus to develop athlete’s foot.
Can I Wear Nail Polish If I Have Toenail Fungus?
This is a common question that people ask when they are first diagnosed with the condition. The answer is yes, you can still wear nail polish if you have toenail fungus. However, it is important to note that the fungus can still spread under the nail polish. This means that you will need to be extra vigilant about keeping your nails clean and dry. You may also want to consider using a medicated nail polish that is specifically designed for people with toenail fungus.
Are There Side Effects of Prescriptions Medications for Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is a common problem that can be difficult to treat. While there are many over-the-counter and prescription medications available, they can come with side effects. These may include stomach upset, headaches, and dizziness. Some people may also experience allergic reactions to the medications. If you are considering taking a prescription medication for toenail fungus, be sure to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and side effects.
What Are the Symptoms of Toenail Fungus?
The most common symptom of toenail fungus is that it spreads to other nails. Toenail fungus can cause visible and painful symptoms. Treatment options include using antifungal medications and topical treatments, as well as Surgery if the infection is severe.
What Are the Common Treatments for Toenail Fungus?
Treatment options include topical applications, oral medications, and surgery. Treatment often requires several months of continuous treatment.
The most common treatments for toenail fungus are trimming the infected nail, scraping away debris, and applying a medicine to the nail.
To completely get rid of the infection, people may also need one or more of the following treatments: medicine applied to nails, nails that are trimmed back to their attachment point, or scraping away debris and treating it with a medicine.
Treatment for toenail fungus usually lasts for about three months, but can be extended with continued monitoring by your dermatologist.
What Is the Success Rate of Treatments for Toenail Fungus?
Treatment success rates vary from person to person and depend on the severity of your infection. Treatment can take weeks or months, and you may need to use more than one type of treatment to get rid of your fungus.
Are There Any Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus?
Some people try home remedies such as tea tree oil and biotin to treat toenail fungus. Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal agent that can be applied directly to the nails. Biotin is a vitamin that helps prevent fungal growth.
Biotin helps to fight nail fungus by helping to build new cell walls in the nails. Vinegar and mothwash are also popular home remedies for toenail fungus. Vinegar is a natural antifungal agent, and Listerine contains ingredients that help to kill the fungus.
There are also many over-the-counter treatments for toenail fungus. These include creams, lotions, and gels that can be applied directly to the nails.
How Can I Prevent Toenail Fungus?
The best way to prevent toenail fungus is by wearing shoes that fit well and allowing your feet to breathe. Don’t wear the same shoes two days in a row, and remove your shoes as often as possible throughout the day.
Keep your nails short and clean, and avoid trauma when walking or exercising. Proper sanitization of nail salon instruments is key for preventing toenail fungus.
Washing clothes and bedding at 60 degrees Celsius can help kill fungal spores.
To prevent nail fungus, make sure to dry your feet thoroughly after a shower or bath, soak toe nails in warm water before cutting them, trim toe nails straight across (don’t round the edges), and wear shoes that fit correctly.
To prevent toenail fungus, try to avoid picking it up in these situations: flip flops in public areas, using a different shower, trauma from accidental or aggressive clipping. You can also try the following tips:
How Long Does Toenail Fungus Take to Develop?
The duration of toenail fungus can vary, but it is typically a slow process that takes several weeks to several months for full resolution.
The toenail fungus can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the infection.
How Do I Know If I Have Toenail Fungus?
The initial signs of toenail fungus are subtle and might not be noticeable unless you know what to look for.
The spots and streaks can be a tricky sign of toenail fungus, as they can appear when you have bumped your toe against something.
If you notice nail marks that fade or grow out, it is likely not a nail injury.
If you notice spots and streaks that gradually change shape, it is likely a fungal infection.
It is always best to have your nails checked out by a doctor if you are unsure of your symptoms.
Can Toenail Fungus be Cured?
Yes, toenail fungus can be cured with various treatments, such as oral antifungal medications. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the fungus.