What causes toenail fungus infection? (onychomycosis)
Dermatophytes are the fungi most commonly responsible for causing toenail fungus. They are specialized organisms that live off of keratin which is the main component of nails and skin. The most common fungi that cause toenail infection disease are Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophyte, and Candida albicans. Everyone is at risk for infection because fungus is present everywhere in the environment.
Where does nail infection come from?
Nail infection (toenail and fingernail) is caused by contact with dermatophytes which are everywhere in our environment. Common sources of infection include swimming pools, public showers, gyms and nail spas. Tight fitting shoes and nail trauma can also lead to infection. Genetic susceptibility, poor health and increasing age are also factors that increase the risk of nail infection.
What are the symptoms of fungal nail infection?
You may suffer from toenail fungus infection (onychomycosis) if you have one or more of the following symptoms: Discolored nails, Yellow streaks under the nail, Distorted or thickened nails, Brittle, crumbly or ragged nail, Nails separated from the underlying skin, Buildup of debris (nail fragments, skin) under the nail, White spots or streaks on the nail surface
What treatments are available for nail infections?
Current treatment options for fungal nail infection include oral drugs, topical drugs and laser treatment for toenail and fingernails. No single treatment is effective in all patients and there are risks and benefits associated with each one.
