Nail fungus
Nail Fungus
Nail fungus, also known as Onychomycosis (pronounced: on-i-ko-mi-KO-sis), is a common condition that begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, nail fungus may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and crumble at the edge. It can affect several nails.
Etymology
The term "Onychomycosis" is derived from the Greek words "onyx" which means nail, and "mycosis" which means fungal infection.
Causes
Nail fungus is caused by various types of fungus. The most common cause is a type of fungus called dermatophyte. Yeast and molds also can cause nail infections.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of nail fungus include:
- Thickened nails
- Whitish to yellow-brown discoloration
- Brittle, crumbly or ragged nails
- Distorted in shape or separated
- A dark color, caused by debris building up under your nail
- Smelling slightly foul
Treatment
Treatment of nail fungus might include pharmacological methods, surgical nail removal, or topical treatments. Oral antifungal drugs, topical antifungals and laser therapy are commonly used treatments.
Prevention
Prevention strategies include keeping the feet dry and clean, wearing shoes that allow the feet to breathe, wearing sandals in public showers or pools, and using foot powders to keep the feet dry.
See Also
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