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Proximal subungual onychomycosis: Infection originates from the proximal nail fold and spreads distally.The big toenail is most often affected, but all nails are susceptible. Yellowish, brownish, or whitish discoloration begins under the distal edge or sides of the nail and spreads over the entire nail plate. Distal or lateral subungual onychomycosis: The most common form of onychomycosis.Onychomycosis can be classified into several subtypes based on the origin of the infection within the nail plate, the infecting organism, or the appearance of the nail. It can take several months to a year for the infection to go away.
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In severe cases, a doctor might remove the nail completely. The best treatment for a fungal nail infection is usually prescription antifungal pills taken by mouth. Treatmentįungal nail infections can be difficult to cure, and they typically don’t go away without antifungal treatment. He or she may also take a nail clipping to look at under a microscope or send to a laboratory for a fungal culture. Your healthcare provider may diagnose a fungal nail infection by looking at the affected nail and asking questions about your symptoms. Please click here for more information about nail hygiene. Make sure the salon sterilizes its instruments (nail clippers, scissors, etc.) after each use, or, you can bring your own. When visiting a nail salon, choose a salon that is clean and licensed by your state’s cosmetology board.Don’t share nail clippers with other people.Don’t walk barefoot in areas like locker rooms or public showers.Clip your fingernails and toenails short and keep them clean.Keep your hands and feet clean and dry.Some people may be more likely than others to get a fungal nail infection, including older adults and people who have the following conditions: 2, 3 Who gets fungal nail infections?Īnyone can get a fungal nail infection.
#Fingernail clippings skin
Small cracks in your nail or the surrounding skin can allow these germs to enter your nail and cause an infection. How does someone get a fungal nail infection?įungal nail infections can be caused by many different types of fungi (yeasts or molds) that live in the environment. Some people who have fungal toenail infections also have a fungal skin infection on the foot, especially between the toes (commonly called “ athlete’s foot”). A fungal nail infection usually isn’t painful unless it becomes severe.
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