Ignore Toenail Fungal Infections at your Peril

Having a yellowed nail from toenail fungus can seem pretty insignificant (given the horrors of cancer, diabetes and many other life threatening illnesses). Toenail fungus (onychomycosis or o/m for short) usually isn’t painful, just a bit ugly, and therefore might not prompt you to get it investigated or treated. However, ignoring a toenail infected with fungus could have health consequences beyond appearances. Potential complications of a toenail fungal infection:

A nail infected with fungus can become thick and misshapen and often cause causing pain and can make it difficult to walk when wearing shoes.

Untreated toenail fungus can spread to the surrounding skin on the foot which can lead to the development of athlete’s foot, a condition marked by itchy, red, cracked skin on the sole of the foot or in between your toes. An infection can spread easily because fungus thrives in a warm, dark, moist environment...socks and shoes are a perfect breeding ground.

People with with diabetes and other conditions that weaken the immune system should have their Toenail fungal infection investigated and treated as soon as possible as it may lead to further dermatological conditions.

If you think you, or the person you care for, may have a toenail fungal infection please see a Foot Health Professional at ThinkFeet where we can asses the infection and discuss a treatment plan.

Have a look at some of these images to help you decide whether you have a fungal infection.