Fungal Nail Infections - Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Fungal nail infections are caused by fungi that affect the nails on the hands and feet, leading to changes in nail color, texture, and shape.
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Fungal Infections | Nail Disorders | Podiatry | Nail Fungus | Toenail Infections
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Fungal Nail Infections FAQ


Image credit: bmj.com

What is a fungal nail infection?

A fungal nail infection, also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium, happens when a fungus that’s normally in your fingernails or toenails overgrows.

What causes nail fungus?

Nail fungus is caused by various fungal organisms (fungi). The most common is a type called dermatophyte. Yeast, bacteria and molds also can cause nail infections. The discoloration from a bacterial infection tends to be green or black.

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus causes discoloration, nail thickening, and nail cracking and breaking. It occurs when an overgrowth of fungus gets into your nail and causes an infection. This article explains toenail fungus causes, symptoms, treatment, potential complications, and prevention steps. Foot with toenail fungus.

How common is a fungal nail infection?

Between 3 and 8 out of 100 people in the UK will develop a fungal nail infection (tinea unguium) at some stage of their lives. Toenails are more commonly affected than fingernails. It is more common in people aged over 60 and in younger people who share communal showers, such as swimmers or athletes. What causes fungal nail infections?

How to prevent a fungal infection of the nails?

Making a few simple lifestyle changes can help prevent a fungal infection of the nails. Taking good care of your nails by keeping them well trimmed and clean is a good way to prevent infections. Also avoid injuring the skin around your nails.

Fungal Nail Infections References

If you want to know more about Fungal Nail Infections, consider exploring links below:

What Is Fungal Nail Infections

  1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nail-fungus/symptoms-causes/syc-20353294
  2. https://www.healthline.com/health/fungal-nail-infection
  3. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/toenail-infection
  4. https://patient.info/infections/fungal-nail-infection-tinea-unguium
  5. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/fungal-nail-infections
  6. https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/nail-infections.html
  7. https://www.verywellhealth.com/toenail-fungus-5226039
  8. https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/fungal-nail-infections
  9. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fungal-nail-infection/

Fungal Nail Infections Information

  1. https://www.podiatry.org.au/foot-health-resources/fungal-and-nail-infections
  2. https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/skin-hair-and-nails/fungal-nail-infection

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2024-Mar-21 13:09