Fungal nail infection, also known as Tinea Ungium or Onychomychosis (on-ih-koh-my-koh-sis), is the result of an infection caused by a dermatophyte, candida (yeast), or non-dermatophytic mold.

This condition results in thickened, discolored, disfigured, and brittle nails.  Approximately 3-12% of the population is affected.  Certain diseases, such as Diabetes, PVD, and Psoriasis, can predispose you to fungal infections.  Aging will also make you more susceptible to fungal infection.

Nail fungus can easily spread to your skin, and when it does, it is called tinea pedis. This results in cracking, scaling, redness, and itching of the skin on the feet and between the toes.

After making a diagnosis, treatment usually includes a topical regime to eradicate the pathogen.  In some cases oral medication, laser therapy, or surgery is employed.

The earlier the treatment, the more effective and less likely it is to spread and permanently damage the nail.

It’s not too late to have summer-ready nails!