Nail fungus (onychomycosis)
healthy nails for hands and feet
Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is a common nail infection caused by fungi. It can affect both fingernails and toenails and manifests as thickening, discoloration, brittleness, or separation from the nail bed. If left untreated, the infection often spreads and can cause pain, pressure sores, or an unsightly appearance.
Table of Contents
- What is nail fungus?
- Causes & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & typical changes
- Diagnostics at the dermatologist
- Treatment options
- Topical & systemic therapies
- Modern laser therapy for nail fungus
- Prevention & Care
- FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus is an infection of the fingernails or, much more commonly, the toenails. It is usually caused by dermatophytes (filamentous fungi), less often by yeasts or molds.
The disease is not dangerous, but it is contagious and aesthetically distressing.
Without treatment, the nail can be completely destroyed.
2. Causes & Risk Factors
2. Causes & Risk Factors
Most common causes:
- Fungal infection from walking barefoot in swimming pools or changing rooms
- untreated athlete's foot or skin fungus (tinea pedis)
- minor injuries in the nail area
- tight shoes, humid and warm environment
Risk factors:
- diabetes
- Circulatory disorders
- weak immune system
- older skin
- Frequent nail cosmetics (especially for fingernails)
3. Symptoms & typical changes
3. Symptoms & typical changes
- People with thickened, brittle, or discolored nails
- Affected individuals with painful pressure points or detachments at the nail bed
- Patients who desire sustainable, professional treatment
4. Diagnostics at the dermatologist
4. Diagnostics at the dermatologist
- Fast and targeted control of the fungus
- Promoting a healthy, aesthetically pleasing nail appearance
- Reduction of pain and pressure points
- Combination of medical foot care and therapy for optimal results
5. Treatment options
5. Treatment options
The therapy is based on:
- Type of fungal pathogen
- Spread
- Thickness and extent of nail damage
- individual health condition
A combination of different methods is often recommended.
6. Topical & systemic therapies
6. Topical & systemic therapies
Topical treatment (lacquers & solutions)
Ideal for light infestations:
- antifungal nail polish
- Solutions for softening and removing diseased parts of the nail
Systemic treatment (tablets)
In cases of severe infestation:
- very effective
- Treatment over several weeks
- Regular medical check-ups are necessary.
INFOBOX:
Fungal infections only grow out as fast as the nail grows back, so patience is important.
7. Modern laser therapy for nail fungus
7. Modern laser therapy for nail fungus
Laser therapy is an ideal complement to traditional treatment:
- The laser heats the affected tissue in a controlled manner.
- Fungal structures are damaged.
- Promotes clear, healthy nail regrowth
- Well suited for patients who do not want to take tablets.
Advantages:
- Hardly any side effects
- pain-free
- High success rate with regular use
8. Prevention & Care
8. Prevention & Care
✔ Change socks daily
✔ Wear breathable shoes
✔ Dry hands/feet thoroughly
✔ Do not share nail scissors
✔ Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
✔ Treat nail fungus at the first signs
✔ Always treat athlete's foot at the same time (a common cause of nail fungus)
9. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
9. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Is nail fungus contagious?
Yes, both for other people and for other nails.
How long does the treatment take?
Months, as the nail needs to grow back healthy.
Will a laser alone help?
Laser treatment is very effective, but works best in combination with nail polish or tablets.
Can the nail look normal again?
Yes, with consistent therapy, it usually grows back completely healthy.
My nail has come loose – what should I do?
Treat quickly before the fungus infects the new nail.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Nail fungus is persistent, but with modern diagnostics, topical and systemic therapies, and laser treatments, it is now very treatable. An individualized treatment plan ensures that nails grow back clear, healthy, and strong.