Onychomycosis, or fungus infections of the nails, is quite prevalent. Both the nails on the fingers and toes are affected. Toenail fungal infections are more widespread than fingernail fungus infections.

Any changes to one or more nails could be a sign of a fungal infection.

Typical warning signs

• Fragile or brittle nails.
• Brown, yellow, or white nail discoloration.

Additional signs

• Nail pain.
• A variation in the nail shape.
• The nail’s edges crumble.
• Junk stuck beneath the nail.
• Thicker nails than usual.
• Nail’s surface is losing its gloss and sheen.
• A nail that has loosened or lifted.

Several organisms, including the following, can penetrate the nails and lead to infection:

Dermatophytes

• Trichophyton rubrum – the most frequent cause.
• Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
• Epidermophyton floccosum.
• Trichophyton interdigitale.

Non-dermatophytic

• Fusarium.
• Aspergillus.
• Acremonium.
• Scytalidium.

Older persons with diabetes or people with a weakened immune system may experience complications, which could include:

• Tissue damage.
• Permanently discolored nail.
• Loss of nail.
• Re-infection.
• Osteomyelitis.
• Cellulitis.
• Sepsis.

Home remedies

• Over-the-counter topical antifungal – terbinafine, tolnaftate, undecylenic acid, and clotrimazole. These can be applied to affected regions and come in spray, cream, or liquid form.
• If you see white spots on your nails, file them off, soak them in water, dry them, and then apply the prescription cream or lotion.
• Trimming the thin nails can help relieve pain and pressure while allowing topical antifungals to penetrate deeper layers

Medical management

• Topical antifungals may be used with oral antifungal medication or for a minor infection. One can rub or brush their nails with these medications. Ciclopirox, amorolfine, tavaborole, are examples.
• Laser therapy – offers a high efficacy in treating and curing fungal nail infections.

A person can lessen their risk of developing nail fungal infections by taking the following steps:

• Regularly wash both your hands and feet with soap and water, being sure to get the skin in between the fingers and toes.
• Following a shower or bath, thoroughly dry the hands, feet, and toes.
• Never share scissors, towels, shoes, or nail clippers with anyone.
• Trim your nails regularly to prevent debris buildup at the tips.
• Before getting a nail treatment, confirm that the nail salon has sterilized its instruments.
• Avoid getting fake nails attached to your nails.