Do you have discolored, thick nails? You may be suffering from nail fungus also known as onychomycosis. The most common symptom of fungal nail infection is thickening and discoloration: white, black, yellow, green. Eventually, nail becomes brittle and sometimes detaches from nail plate. If left untreated, the skin can become inflamed and painful underneath and around the nail. This can also lead to foul-smelling feet.
Aging, heavy sweating, being in a moist environment, wearing socks and shoes that hinder ventilation, going barefoot in damp public areas like swimming pools, gym, shower rooms are common risk factors for onychomycosis. It can also occur in patients who have had minor skin or nail injury as fungus can easily get into the nail.
Fungus is caused by several pathogens, dermatophytes being the most common one. Trichophyton rubrum is most common dermatophyte involved in onychomycosis. There are 4 classic types of onychomycosis (Distal subungual onychomycosis, White superficial onychomycosis, proximal subungual onychomycosis, candida). Do no assume that nails that are discolored, thickened and abnormally shaped are fungus. There are several other reasons for deformed nails and therefore most of the times, nail biopsy is necessary. If you want to seek proper treatment and diagnosis for your nail deformity, make an appointment with one of our foot and ankle specialists by calling 732 297-9535.
