When you have toenail fungus, it can be tempting to hide it away and hope that it simply disappears on its own. Unfortunately, putting off treatment can cause even bigger problems than an unsightly, discolored nail.
If you’re dealing with this common issue, the experienced providers at Ahwatukee Foot & Ankle Center in Phoenix and Maricopa, Arizona, are here to help. We offer comprehensive solutions for a broad range of foot conditions, including persistent fungal nails.
Here, we explain why prompt care is so essential when you notice toenail fungus.
Discoloration, thickening, or crumbling can be signs of onychomycosis, a fungal infection that affects an estimated 10% of the general population and 50% of people over 70. This infection occurs when fungal microorganisms get in between the nail and the nail bed, usually through tiny cuts or cracks in the nail or surrounding skin.
Fungi thrive in warm, moist conditions — think gym locker rooms, shared showers, and swimming pools. Going barefoot in places like these can put you at risk of toenail fungus. Even wearing sweaty socks and shoes for extended periods can contribute to fungal growth.
Your risk also increases if you have an injury to your toenail, allowing fungi easier access to the nail bed, or a medical condition that affects circulation to your feet, such as diabetes or peripheral neuropathy.
Toenail fungus doesn’t just disappear on its own. Without proper treatment, this seemingly minor issue can cause a range of complications, including:
The fungal infection can spread to other toenails, fingernails, and your skin, leading to uncomfortable conditions like athlete’s foot — a fungal infection of the skin between your toes. Other members of your household can also pick up the infection through shared spaces or items, even towels.
As the infection progresses, your nail may become thick, brittle, or misshapen. This can make it uncomfortable or painful to wear certain shoes, to walk normally, or to fully participate in everyday activities.
Healthy nails act as a protective barrier against bacteria. Toenail fungus can cause lifting, cracking, or crumbling of the nail, increasing the likelihood of serious bacterial infections such as cellulitis — especially for people with compromised immune systems or conditions like diabetes, where even minor infections are a concern.
Over time, untreated fungal infections can permanently change the shape of the affected nail. In severe cases, the toenail may fully detach from the nail bed, or the nail bed itself can suffer irreversible damage, preventing healthy regrowth.
If you notice the signs of toenail fungus, don’t ignore it or try to solve the problem yourself with weak home remedies or over-the-counter products.
Confirming a fungal infection requires professional diagnosis, as other nail conditions can present with similar symptoms. Do-it-yourself treatment options often prove ineffective for established infections, as they may not penetrate deeply enough to eliminate the fungi.
Our team can accurately identify the issue and determine the best course of action. Depending on your individual needs, we may recommend prescription-strength antifungal medication or advanced therapies for more persistent cases.
To put an end to the discomfort and embarrassment of toenail fungus, schedule an appointment with the experts at Ahwatukee Foot & Ankle Center today for effective, personalized care.
