Can you live with nail fungus?

While the fungus is unlikely to go away on its own, it may not get any worse. “If you can live with a spot on your nail, then it might be fine with no treatment,” Joseph says. “But if you have cosmetic concerns, then a small dose of medication will probably take care of it.”

Is toenail fungus for life?

Toenail fungus is definitely not a good look. There are plenty of home remedies, but they don’t seem to work. And nail fungus doesn’t just go away on its own. Fortunately, the team at Easton Dermatology Associates can address any nail fungus issue you may have with a diverse menu of treatment options.

Is nail fungus linked to death?

Although fungal nail infections are not life-threatening, they’re an important health problem because of their high prevalence and poor response to therapy.

How does a fungus grow on a toenail?

Fungal spores are in the air, and they will grow if they land on a receptive surface like your toenail. They feed off the nail tissues, burrowing into the skin under the nail. Over time the nail thickens and may lift off the nail bed as fungal debris accumulates.

Is it possible to have a fungal nail infection?

ANSWER: What you’re likely experiencing is a fungal nail infection. Fungal nail infections are common, especially among older adults. As nail growth slows with age, it’s easier for fungus to establish in the nail bed. Treatments are available, although they may take some vigilance and are not always necessary.

How long does it take for toenail fungus to go away?

All require daily applications, and it may take as long as a year to see noticeable improvement. These products may work for early, superficial fungal infections because they kill fungi on the surface of the nail. Filing down the surface of the nail may enable them to penetrate more deeply into the nail or the nail bed.

How can you tell if you have a fungal infection on your toe?

“The organisms that cause toenail fungus are common inhabitants of our everyday environment in showers, hotels, and outdoors,” he says, “so the chance of exposure is high.” If you experience a nail injury, watch carefully for signs of a toenail fungal infection. Signs include a nail that becomes white, yellow, brittle, or thick.

Fungal spores are in the air, and they will grow if they land on a receptive surface like your toenail. They feed off the nail tissues, burrowing into the skin under the nail. Over time the nail thickens and may lift off the nail bed as fungal debris accumulates.

Can a toenail fungus cause your nails to hurt?

Toenail fungus isn’t a pressing health problem. Yet a fungal infection can ruin the appearance of your nails and cause pain as it lifts the nail away from the nail bed. And fungal infections are notoriously difficult to get rid of.

What happens if you ignore a fungal infection on your toe?

While many people are otherwise healthy and may just think of it as a cosmetic problem, ignoring a toenail infected with fungus could have health consequences beyond appearances. Potential complications of a toenail fungal infection: Foot pain. Over time, a nail infected with fungus can become thick and misshapen, causing pain, Dr. Joseph says.

All require daily applications, and it may take as long as a year to see noticeable improvement. These products may work for early, superficial fungal infections because they kill fungi on the surface of the nail. Filing down the surface of the nail may enable them to penetrate more deeply into the nail or the nail bed.