What Is Black Nail Fungus?
Black nail fungus is a widespread but frequently neglected ailment that plagues numerous individuals globally. It first manifests as a minor discoloration beneath the toenail and, if not treated, can turn into a more severe condition. The medical term for this infection is onychomycosis, an attack by fungi that luxuriates in warm, moist places. Gradually, the nail gets thickened, brittle, and dark. Discoloration of the toenail is usually the initial symptom.
Individuals with fungal toenail infection also feel pain or discomfort while walking. Poor hygiene, infection of the nail bed, and trauma are risk factors. Good care and prompt treatment can prevent the spread of the infection and health of the nail.
What Causes Black Nail Fungus
The main causes of nail fungus include contact with fungi in wet places, like public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms. Tight shoes or those that do not circulate air properly will also provide a favorable habitat for fungi growth. Toenail trauma fungus may arise due to an injury on the nail that creates an opening for the fungi.
Some other factors contributing to the infection are bad foot hygiene, excessive sweating, and sharing personal belongings such as nail clippers or towels with an individual having a fungal infection of the toenail. People with poor immune systems or pre-existing health conditions are at higher risk of developing this infection.
Who Is at Risk of Black Toenail Fungus?
Some populations are more likely to develop blackened or discolored nails resulting from fungal infection. They include elderly individuals, those with diabetes, those with compromised immune systems, and those who have suffered nail trauma. Sports players and those who make use of shared showers or swimming pools often are also at higher risk.
In addition, individuals with artificial nails or a past history of nail bed infection are at increased risk of getting fungus of the nail bed. Good foot hygiene and prevention can decrease the risk of infection.
Common Symptoms of Black Nail Fungus
Early recognition of the symptoms of fungal nail infection can result in more effective treatment. The usual symptoms are discoloration of the nails turning black, thickened or deformed nails, and brittleness of the nails. The infected nail produces a bad odor and becomes tender, particularly to pressure.
In others, the nail is lifted from the nail bed, referred to as nail lifting from the nail bed. This allows space for additional fungal growth and puts you at risk of secondary bacterial infections. If you experience any of these signs, you should consult a medical professional as soon as possible.
Is Black Nail Fungus Serious?
Although black nail fungus might appear to be a trivial cosmetic problem, it can result in serious complications if not treated. The infection can be transmitted to other nails and skin, leading to pain and possible mobility problems. In people with diabetes or weakened immune systems, the development of serious complications like nail fungus in diabetics becomes more likely.
Chronic infections could result in permanent nail destruction and, in severe cases, necessitate surgical treatment. Thus, early detection and treatment are paramount to avoid further advancement of the condition.
Effective Home Remedies for Black Toenail Fungus
A number of home treatments for nail fungus have proved to be effective, particularly when the infection is in its early stages. Applying tea tree oil, which contains antifungals, directly onto the infected nail can keep the fungus at bay. Soaking the feet in a solution of vinegar and water may also deter fungal growth.
Other treatments involve employing over-the-counter topical antifungal creams and good foot hygiene. It should be noted that while these treatments are beneficial, they might not be enough for bad infections. Getting the advice of a health professional is advisable in case of persistent or deteriorating symptoms.
Medical Treatments for Black Nail Fungus
For more serious cases, the infection may require medical treatment. Oral antifungal tablets like terbinafine or itraconazole can be prescribed and have been shown to be effective in curing the infection from the inside out. Treatment usually takes several weeks to months.
Along with topical and oral medications, laser treatment for nail fungus is a new option. This treatment applies focused light to kill the fungus and is typically employed as an alternative when other therapies have been unsuccessful. It’s important to review possible advantages and complications of these treatments with a medical professional.
How to Prevent Black Nail Fungus
Prevention of black nail fungus is by the use of good foot hygiene. Wear clean socks regularly, keep your feet dry and clean, and use ventilated shoes. Do not walk barefoot in areas where many people go barefoot such as public showers or locker rooms to minimize exposure to fungus.
Proper foot hygiene helps in preventing infection. Wear fresh, ventilated socks and do not walk barefoot around public showers or around the pool. Cutting nails straight across and not cutting them too short will also be reducing pressure and potential nail damage. If you have heel pain or discomfort, this may also impact the way you walk and put further pressure on your toenails, potentially making the condition worse. You can learn more about how to treat heel pain, its causes and treatments, here.
Frequent disinfection of nail care tools and not sharing them can also prevent infection. For people with diabetes, sticking to a diabetic nail care regimen is very important in reducing the risk of fungal infection.
When to See a Doctor for Black Nail Fungus
If you see recurring symptoms of toenail fungus, including discoloration, thickening, or detachment from the nail bed, it’s best to get advice from a medical practitioner. Treatment at this stage can avoid the spread of the infection and worsening of symptoms.
People with systemic medical conditions, such as diabetes or immunodeficiency disorders, need to consult a doctor immediately upon observing signs. A doctor can suggest suitable antifungal treatments depending on the severity of the infection.
FAQs On Black Nail Fungus
- How do you remove black fungus from nails?
Employ antifungal drugs in the form of topical creams or oral antifungal tablets, and maintain clean and dry nails. - Why does nail fungus become black?
The fungus releases dark pigments, or bleeding happens under the nail as a result of infection or trauma. - What causes black nails due to deficiency?
Iron deficiency or inadequate blood supply sometimes results in black or dark nails. - How do I treat a black nail?
Clean the nail, use antifungal treatment, and consult a doctor if it doesn’t show improvement. - How can I get black nails removed at home?
Attempt home treatments such as vinegar or tea tree oil soaking, but get medical assistance for chronic instances.
For additional reading on home treatment for toenail fungus, see this Healthline article.
If you’re interested in a visual guide on treating toenail fungus at home, this video may be helpful:
