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Fungal Nails

Podiatry, Foot & Ankle Surgeon and Wound Care Specialist providing Fungal Nails services to Carteret, Woodbridge, Perth Amboy, Rahway, Elizabeth, NJ and the surrounding areas

If you’re embarrassed by thick, crumbly, yellow toenails, you’re not alone. It turns out that 10% of people have fungal nail infections. At Carteret Foot & Ankle Center, board-certified podiatrist Navrit Randhawa, DPM, and his colleagues specialize in treating your current fungal nail while providing preventive care to lower the chance of recurring infections. If you or your child need help with fungal nails, call the office in Carteret, New Jersey, or use the online booking feature to request an appointment today.

Fungal Nails Q & A

What are fungal nails?

A fungal nail is an infection caused by fungi (molds, yeast, and other organisms). Fungal organisms naturally grow in the soil, on plants, and in any moist area, whether in your home, school, or a community building. However, you can only get an infection when fungi get through a small cut or opening in your skin or nail.

Your risk of developing fungal nails increases if you: 

  • Wear shoes that aren’t ventilated
  • Don’t wear socks
  • Have very sweaty feet
  • Go barefoot around pools and in locker rooms
  • Have a history of athlete’s foot
  • Have contact with another person who has fungal nails

You’re also more likely to have fungal nails as you get older because your toenails crack, creating an opening for fungi.

What symptoms appear if I have fungal nails?

Fungal nails seldom cause pain or discomfort. Their symptoms dramatically affect the appearance of your toenail, often causing:

  • Discolored nail (yellowish but gradually darkening)
  • White or yellowish streaks or spots
  • Ragged nail edges
  • Crumbly nails
  • Thick nails
  • Odor from the nail

A severe fungal infection may cause the nail to separate from your skin.

How is a fungal toenail treated?

Many people turn to over-the-counter products for treating toenail fungus. However, fungal infections are notoriously hard to treat, and these products seldom eliminate the problem.

To truly get rid of the fungus and prevent it from returning, your provider treats your current symptoms while also implementing preventive measures.

They may prescribe topical medications along with oral antifungal drugs. In some cases, they may remove part or all of the nail to be sure all the diseased nail is eliminated.

Your Carteret Foot & Ankle Center provider may also recommend personalized steps you can take to prevent recurring fungal infections. For example, regular use of an antifungal foot powder and always wearing clean, dry shoes and socks may help you avoid fungal nails in the future.

Because the dark, moist environment created by sweaty feet inside shoes is the perfect breeding ground for fungi, some people rotate two pairs of shoes. This gives each pair time to dry completely.

Call Carteret Foot & Ankle Center at the first sign of fungal nails, or use online booking to request an appointment today.