Toenail Fungus/Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis, also known as tinea unguium, is a fungal infection of the nail. Symptoms may include white or yellow nail discoloration, thickening of the nail, and separation of the nail from the nail bed. Toenails or fingernails may be affected, but it is more common for toenails to be affected. Complications may include cellulitis of the lower leg. A number of different types of fungus can cause onychomycosis including dermatophytes and Fusarium. Risk factors include athlete's foot, other nail diseases, exposure to someone with the condition, peripheral vascular disease, and poor immune function. The diagnosis is generally suspected based on the appearance and confirmed by laboratory testing.

It occurs in about 10 percent of the adult population. Older people are more frequently affected. Males are affected more often than females. Onychomycosis represents about half of nail disease. 

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms are usually self-diagnosable. One of the main symptoms are changes in the appearance of nails. Rarely, however, the condition causes pain or a slightly foul odor. Other people may experience toenail discoloration, thickening, or brittleness.

What about the treatment?

Some of the treatments include oral antifungal drugs, medicated nail polish or cream, or nail removal (which isn't guaranteed since fungus lives mostly on the nail bed). It's very important to see a podiatrist or dermatologist for treatment. 

About Dr. Kelvin Barry

Dr. Kelvin Barry is a podiatrist practicing in Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Barry is a medical doctor specializing in the treatment of the foot , ankle and related parts of the leg. As a podiatrist, Dr. Barry diagnoses and treats conditions of the feet. The feet are key body parts that give a person stability, absorb shock, allow for walking and standing and are necessary for overall well-being. So, the feet need expert care. Podiatrists can specialize in surgery, wound care, sports medicine, diabetic care and pediatrics.