Onychomycosis – What Are The Different Conditions?

Among the many types of fungal skin infections, onychomycosis is one of the most common. It affects about one in ten people. This infection is usually mild but can lead to serious complications if not treated. If you are experiencing symptoms of onychomycosis, you should have your nails checked by a healthcare provider. Your doctor may examine the nails under a microscope and may culture the debris to identify the fungus. If you are experiencing symptoms of onychomycosis, your healthcare provider may prescribe better nail fungus treatment. In this article, we will discuss the different conditions of onychomycosis.

Athlete’s foot:

An athlete’s foot is another condition that can lead to nail fungus. It causes painful, cracking skin around the nail. The nails are also thick and may cause pain. People who have athlete’s foot are at risk for developing other fungal infections, such as nail infections and infections of the hands and feet. If you have these infections, you may experience painful blisters, itching, and red, swollen skin. The nail can also become thick and become discolored. The fungi that cause these infections can be cured, but treatment may not always be needed.

Distal subungual onychomycosis:

The most common type of toenail fungal infection is distal subungual onychomycosis. This infection affects the nail plate in the center. The fungus then spreads out from the center and causes the nail to crumble and fall off. The most common oral antifungal medications used to treat this condition are terbinafine (Lamisil), itraconazole (Sporanox), and fluconazole (Diflucan). People with liver problems should avoid taking this medication. Alternatively, a doctor may use a 40% urea solution to remove the fungus from the nail. This method is very effective in some cases.

Candidal onychomycosis:

Another form of nail infection is Candidal onychomycosis, which is caused by yeast. Candida species can invade the nail plate by entering the nail through the water. This infection can be difficult to treat and can be associated with a weakened immune system. People with Candidal onychomycosis often have damaged nails and may have a fever or feel unwell.

Caused by fungi that live on the nail plate and under the skin:

Typically, onychomycosis is caused by fungi that live on the nail plate and under the skin. However, other pathogens can also cause nail infections. Those infections include yeast, bacteria, and fungi. The fungi cause the skin to become inflamed, and a swollen, inflamed area can develop around the nail. People who have weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing nail infections.