Fungus
Table of Contents
What is Athlete’s Foot?
Causes
Symptoms
Fungus
Fungus infections of the foot and nail spread in warm, dark and moist areas. “Athlete’s foot” makes skin itchy and scaly, nails thick and white.
Treatment
Your podiatrist may prescribe medication.
What causes nail fungus?
The organisms that cause nail fungus, also know as Tinea unguium or onychomycosis, are dermatophytes- fungi that feed on keratin (the top layer of skin, hair & nails).
The most common ones are Trychophyton Rubrum, Trychophyton Mentagrophytes, and to a lesser degree Epidermophyton Floccosum. Candida species (yeast) may also be a causative agent.
What is Nail Fungus?
About Nail Fungus
Fungal infection of the nail, or onychomycosis, is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. Nail fungus may be ugly and embarrassing. The nail often becomes darker in color and foul smelling. Debris may collect beneath the nail plate and it may start to deteriorate..
White, yellow or brown spots may also appear. These infections need to be treated to prevent additional problems such as ingrown nails, bacterial infections and other problems. Treatment may consist of Laser, topical or oral meds.
Laser treatment of fungus toenails is the safest with the highest success rate