At Ashton Podiatry, we know how important healthy, attractive feet are to your comfort and confidence. Toenail fungus is a common condition that can lead to discomfort and self-consciousness. Our compassionate team of podiatrists is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatment to help restore the health and appearance of your nails.
Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects the toenails. It often begins as a small white or yellow spot beneath the nail and, if left untreated, can spread—causing the nail to become thick, discolored, and brittle. While toenail fungus can be persistent and difficult to treat, the right care and management can successfully eliminate the infection and improve the health of your nails.
Causes of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus often develops due to warm, damp environments, nail injuries, poor foot hygiene, tight or non-breathable shoes, and a weakened immune system. We can help identify the cause and provide effective treatment.
Symptoms
- Discoloration of the nail (white, yellow, or brown)
- Thickened or misshapen nails
- Brittle, crumbly, or ragged edges
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
- Foul odor coming from the affected nail
Treatment
- Topical treatments – Creams or lacquers to fight the fungus.
- Oral medications – Prescription pills for deeper infection control.
- Nail removal – In severe cases, removing the nail may be necessary.
- Prevention – Good foot hygiene and antifungal products to avoid reinfection.
Prevention
- Maintain proper foot hygiene – Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and dry them well, especially between the toes.
- Wear breathable footwear – Choose shoes that allow air circulation to keep moisture at bay.
- Change socks regularly – Swap socks daily or more often if your feet sweat easily.
- Use antifungal products – Apply powders or sprays to your feet and shoes to prevent fungus.
- Protect your feet in public areas – Wear sandals or flip-flops in showers, locker rooms, and pools.
- Trim nails properly – Cut toenails straight across and avoid trimming too short to prevent injury and infection.
