Overview
Fungal Nail Infection is the most common type of nail infection. It is also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium. Both the toenails and fingernails are susceptible to the fungal infection. However, it commonly occurs in the toenails.Signs and Symptoms
White or yellow streaks on the nail, Scaling under the nail, Flaking white areas on the nail surface, Pitting of the nail, Nail thickened, Distorted shape of the nail, Yellow discolouration under the nail, Crumbling corner of the naail, Brittle nail, Dark discolouration of the nail, Foul-smelling nail, Loss of the nailCommon Causes
Spread from athlete's foot (tinea pedis), Spread from fungal infection in other body parts, Contact to someone else who has a fungal infectionRisk Factors
Age over 65 years, Family history of fungal infection, Wearing socks all the time which prevents ventilation to the foot, Over sweating of palms and foot, Injury to nails, Previous fungal infection, Diabetes, Weakened immune system, Poor blood circulation, Tight footwearInvestigation Techniques
Examination of nails, Potassium hydroxide smear test (KOH), Fungal cultureTreatment and Prevention
Antifungal nail cream, Oral antifungal medication, Trim the nails and keep it short, Keep foot and nails clean and dry
