Nail infections can cause pain, discomfort, and affect your ability to do day-to-day tasks. They can also impact the neighboring areas, including your fingers and other nails.
Knowing the types of nail infections and their symptoms can help ensure timely treatment. Here’s a closer look at two common types of nail infections:
Fungal Nail Infection
Fungal nail infection, medically known as onychomycosis, is quite common. It is caused by fungi called dermatophytes, the same fungi that cause athlete’s foot. But instead of affecting the bottom of the feet, dermatophytes enter the nail through cracks, impacting toenails and fingernails.
Dermatophytes can infect your toenails when you touch contaminated surfaces that harbor the fungus. This includes swimming pools, gym showers, and moist shoes. Moreover, keeping your hands wet for extended periods can also contribute to the development of onychomycosis.
Symptoms of Nail Fungus
When a fungal nail infection begins, you will only see a white or brown spot under the tip of your nail. However, as it goes deeper, your nail becomes discolored and brittle. The impacted nail or nails can also become:
- Thickened
- Separated from the nail bed
- Painful
- Smelly
What You Can Do
Fungal nail infections may not cause any pain in their early stages, which is why they are easily overlooked. But if you don’t treat them on time, the infection can spread, leading to complications. If your condition is mild, you can use a topical antifungal. Always check the ingredients to find the best over the counter antifungal nail treatment cream.
If this doesn’t work, consult a podiatrist, who may recommend oral antifungals to treat the infection throughout your body.
Bacterial Nail Infection
Bacterial nail infection, formally known as paronychia, occurs when bacteria enter the nail, cuticle, or surrounding area through broken skin. Paronychia occurs due to several reasons, such as:
- Exposure to irritants. Chemicals can enter the nail bed and cause irritation.
- Nail biting. People who bite their nails or pick at their cuticles can be vulnerable to bacterial nail infections.
- Trauma to the nail bed. Frequent manicures and pedicures can damage the cuticle area, leading to bacterial invasion.
- Prolonged exposure to water. People who work with water throughout the day, such as dishwashers, can suffer from a bacterial nail infection.
Symptoms of Bacterial Nail Infection
The symptoms of a bacterial nail infection include:
- Pain and swelling around the impacted nail
- Reddened skin that is warm to the touch
- Pus build-up under the skin
What To Do
For mild cases, warm soaks and topical antibiotics can work. However, if the infection continues to grow, a healthcare provider will need to drain the abscess.
Tips to Prevent Nail Infections
While the causes and symptoms of fungal and bacterial nail infections vary, there are some common tips you can follow to avoid both:
- Wash your hands and feet regularly and keep them dry.
- Keep your nails trimmed and cleaned.
- Wear socks that wick away moisture.
- Avoid being barefoot in public areas, such as swimming pools and gym showers.
- Use antifungal sprays and creams.
Pay extra attention to your nail infection if you have preexisting conditions, such as diabetes or athlete’s foot.
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