Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, making feet a prime target due to the conditions inside shoes and socks. Let’s explore how fungus lives on the skin and nails, how it damages the nails by digesting keratin, and how new healthy nails grow during treatment.
How Nail Fungus Develops
Fungi are microscopic organisms that naturally live on our skin. When they find an ideal environment—warm, damp, and dark—they can multiply and lead to an infection. Common types of fungi that infect nails include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.
Skin and Nails: Fungi can start on the skin, such as in cases of athlete’s foot, and migrate to the nails.
Nail Infection: Once fungi invade the nail, they thrive by feeding on keratin, the protein that forms the structure of your nails.
The Role of Keratin in Nail Fungus
Keratin is essential for strong, healthy nails, but it’s also the primary target for fungal infections. Here’s how it works:
Fungal Enzymes: Fungi produce enzymes that break down keratin into smaller molecules, allowing them to use it as a food source.
Damage to the Nail: This digestion process weakens the nail, causing it to become thick, discolored, and brittle. The discoloration—often yellow, white, or brown—occurs because of the degraded keratin accumulating under the nail. This debris builds up as the fungi continue to feed and multiply.
Spread of Infection: Over time, the infection can spread deeper into the nail or to other nails if left untreated.
How New, Healthy Nails Grow During Treatment
Treating nail fungus requires patience, as nails grow slowly. On average, fingernails grow about 3 millimeters per month, while toenails grow about 1 millimeter per month. It’s important to note that nail growth can slow down even further during the winter months due to reduced blood circulation in colder temperatures. Here’s what happens during treatment:
Stopping the Fungus:
Laser Therapy: Laser treatments target fungal cells with concentrated light energy, effectively oxidizing the fungus without damaging surrounding tissue.
Topical Treatments: Medications applied directly to the nail work to kill the fungus on the surface.
Oral Antifungal Medications: These help eliminate the infection from within, targeting fungi that have penetrated deeper layers of the nail.
New Nail Growth:
As the treatment eliminates the fungus, the nail matrix (the growth area beneath the cuticle) begins producing new, healthy keratin.
This new nail slowly pushes the infected, damaged nail outward.
Monitoring Progress:
Visible improvement can take months, as the new nail must fully grow out to replace the infected nail.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Preventing Spread: Early intervention can stop the fungus from spreading to other nails or skin.
Minimizing Damage: Prompt treatment reduces the risk of permanent nail deformities or loss.
Improved Aesthetics: Addressing the issue early leads to quicker restoration of nail appearance.
Tips to Prevent Nail Fungus
Maintain Hygiene: Keep feet clean and dry, change socks, and air out shoes regularly.
Use Proper Footwear: Avoid tight shoes and opt for breathable materials.
Avoid Going Barefoot in Public Areas: Wear sandals in communal showers, pools, and locker rooms.
Trim Nails Properly: Keep nails trimmed and filed to reduce the risk of trauma and fungal entry.
Nail fungus is more than a cosmetic issue; it’s a condition that requires attention and care. Understanding how fungus thrives and how treatment supports new nail growth is essential for overcoming the infection. If you notice signs of nail fungus, call us to schedule an appointment for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. With patience and the right approach, your nails can regain their healthy appearance and strength.