Fungal Nails

Fungal nails are common but not a serious health concern. However, if you’re bothered by the look of your fungal nails, podiatrist John Murphy, DPM, at Maryland Podiatry Center in Ellicott City, Maryland, can help. Dr. Murphy is an experienced podiatrist who can discuss your fungal infection and advise you on the best treatments. Call Maryland Podiatry Center today or click the online scheduling tool to get help with your fungal nails.

My toenails are yellow. Do I have fungal nails?

Yellowing toenails are a common symptom of fungal nails. The nail could also thicken, crumble, or separate from the nail bed. Your fungal nails might also have an odor.

Fungal nails can affect the fingers and toes but are more often seen in the toes.

Fungal infections aren’t the only cause of nail discoloration. Diabetes and chronic leg swelling can also cause the toenails to turn yellow. Nail polish can stain the nails, causing a yellow tint.

What causes fungal nails?

Different fungal organisms cause fungal nails. Walking barefoot, you can pick up the infection in places where fungi thrive, like the gym shower or local pool. Fungi also like sweaty, moist shoes.

You can also develop fungal nails if you have athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet.

Anyone can get fungal nails. But it’s more common in older adults and people with diabetes, weakened immune systems, and nail injuries.

When should I see a podiatrist for fungal nails?

You should schedule an appointment at Maryland Podiatry Center for your fungal nails if over-the-counter (OTC) treatments aren’t improving the infection. Dr. Murphy also recommends you come in for care if there’s bleeding, swelling, or pain around the nail.

If you have diabetes and suspect a toenail infection, Dr. Murphy recommends that you come in immediately. Diabetes affects circulation in the feet, which can slow or halt healing and put you at risk of developing a more severe infection.

During your visit, Dr. Murphy will review your symptoms and medical history and the treatments you’ve tried to clear up your fungal nails. He’ll examine your feet and take a nail sample to determine which fungus is causing the infection.

How are fungal nails treated?

After talking to you about the infection and treatments, Dr. Murphy personalizes your fungal nail treatment. Fungal nails aren’t serious but can take time to clear up.

Initially, Dr. Murphy recommends conservative care like prescription antifungal pills or medicated nail polish. If your infection is severe, Dr. Murphy could recommend surgery to remove the nail so that he can apply antifungal medication to the nail bed.

The sooner you get professional help, the faster your fungal nails will clear up. Call Maryland Podiatry Center today or book an appointment online.