Toe Nails Turning Colors?

While you are sitting at home enjoying the Winter Olympics, have you noticed that your toenails are beginning to change colors? Instead of the healthy, light color the nail bed used to be, they have now become more of a yellowish or brownish color? Have you noticed that your nails are somewhat brittle with underlying debris? If this sounds like some or all of your toes you probably have something called onychomycosis। One of the contributing factors causing these ugly nails are tight shoes which crowd your toes, keeping them warm, moist and tight. Exercise can also cause repetitive micro-trauma, allowing for fungus to invade the nails. Using community showers without shower sandals or spending a lot of time around locker rooms and swimming pools can expose your feet to fungus. In addition, systemic conditions such as Diabetes can also make it easier for fungal infections to develop.

Fungal nails can be diagnosed by your local podiatrist, with the use of a few simple tests such as a KOH test or fungal culture। These tests involve taking a sample from under the nail, after the nail is trimmed back। Other conditions can cause the nail to look as if it has a fungal infection, so the condition must be diagnosed before it can be treated। There are several options available for treatment। There are topical agents, which include antifungal creams, lotions, gels and polish that are applied directly to the affected area। Oral antifungals are usually more effective at killing the fungus, but may cause side effects। The worse of which can be liver damage। Blood work is usually drawn before you start to make sure your liver enzymes are normal। Topical agents are used on superficial fungal conditions. Whereas, the orals are used for more severe, thickened nails.

Exciting new technology is now being researched for the treatment of mycotic (fungal) nails, including the use of lasers and UV light। Much of this data and research is currently undergoing FDA trials, so keep checking with your podiatrist on new available technology! A new fungal polish has been approved by the FDA but will not be available until the fall of 2010.

Ways to prevent from getting fungal nails can include avoiding tight fittings shoes, staying away from certain athletic surfaces, always wearing clean socks, washing and drying feet daily, and switching between a few different pairs of shoes। Fungus loves warm, dark and damp environments, so try to provide dryness, light for your feet। Take care of your toes, and they will take care of you! If you are worried you may have fungal nails, call your local podiatrist before summer and sandal season begin!

The purpose of this blog is to raise awareness about common conditions associated with the foot and ankle. Any advice given, whether medical or legal, is an opinion. For legal counsel or podiatric care, one should see their local podiatrist or attorney. More information can be found at my website www.michiganfootdoctor.com