Green, yellow, black, white - nails can take on a variety of hues when they are infected by fungus. Fungal nail infections are a common occurrence which can become painful if not treated. And there are a variety of causes.
Symptoms of Fungal Nail Infections
Fungal nail infections usually just occur in one nail, though several can be affected, and toenails are more of a target than fingernails. According to the National Health Service (NHS) fungal nail infections are present in about 3% of the UK population.
For most people the symptoms are usually confined to the nail looking unpleasant. It may become thickened and take on a yellowish-green colour. However, if the infection worsens a person may notice some of the following symptoms; -
- Nail comes away from the skin
- Nail becomes brittle and crumbles
- Further discolouration as yellow patches may appear when the nail comes away from the skin
- Nail bed becomes painful
- Skin next to the nail is scaly and inflamed
- Walking becomes painful if a toenails are infected
Causes
There are a variety of causes of nail infections with the most common one being the spread of a fungal skin infection. For example, if athlete's foot fungal infection - which is caused by a parasitic fungus - is not treated early enough it can spread to the toenail. An individual who contracts athlete's foot of the hand after touching an infected foot may spread the infection to the fingernails if hand washing is not observed.
The fungi are known as dermatophytes and they are found in damp public places such as swimming pools, changing rooms, and gyms.
People who are infected and walk barefoot can leave their dead infected skin on the floor which can contaminate other people. You are at increased risk of catching a fungal nail infection if you walk barefoot in these places.
Nail infections can also occur; -
- If you have your hands in water a lot i.e. if you are cleaner. Repeated washing and scrubbing can damage the nail, making it easier for a fungus to infect
- If you have a damaged nail; again this makes it easier for a fungus to take hold
- If you are a smoker
- If you have other medical conditions such as diabetes, poor circulation, psoriasis, and a poorly functioning immune system
- If you live in a hot and humid climate
Treatments for Fungal Nail Infections
Fungal nail infections usually tend to affect adults and treatments can include tablets to clear up the infection, as well as treatments that you paint on the nail. If these fail, your doctor may advise you that the nail should be removed, either wholly or partially.
The nail can be removed by the application of an ointment or a minor surgical procedure.