As a Toronto chiropodist, we see cases of onychomycosis on a regular basis. Although these types of fungal infections can affect different parts of the body, this type grows on your toenails or fingernails.
Here’s a few things that you need to know about spotting and treating one of these infections.
This is a very common problem. In fact it accounts for 50% of all the nail issues people suffer from. Here are a few red flags that you should be paying attention too.
- Brown white or yellow discoloration
- Toenails that are crumbling or brittle
- Toenails that are thick.
These infections develop when fungi grow on or underneath these areas. Fungi thrives in moist warm environments. You might already have it in your body or you can come in contact with another person who has the infection.
Common
This issue is more common with toenails rather than fingernails. The likely reason is your toes are confined in the moist warm environment of your shoes. If you get pedicures at your local nail salon, find out about the disinfecting procedures they use. Nail clippers and emery boards can spread these infections if they aren’t cleaned properly.
Your Toronto Chiropodist Lists Some Other Nail Conditions
We treat other conditions as well. Following is a list of the more common ones.
Trauma
One of the most common reasons for a nail injury is physical trauma. Blood pooling and bruising can happen quite quickly after an injury. The nail can turn black or dark blue. In some situations, this type of trauma can lead to fungal nail infections.
Athlete’s Foot
The same type of fungi affecting the nails is the one that causes Athlete’s Foot. Anyone can be infected, but adult men and teenagers are two of the highest risk groups. The fungus grows and incubates in moist conditions like those found in the insole of a sneaker.
Psoriasis of The Nails
This disease is characterized by white and pink patches on your skin. The nails begin to pit when they are affected by it.
These Conditions
Here are some excellent reasons to look after these conditions. If left untreated, some of these issues can cause mobility and pain problems. For example, when your nails thicken with an infection, walking and exercising and even standing can become an issue.
A Toronto chiropodist can help. Book an appointment today.
