The Risks of Untreated Fungi
When a fungi infects the toenails it may initially go unnoticed. However, white or yellow spots will develop under the tip of the toenail. As the toenail begins to spread the nail may start to crumble apart at the edges, and can be accompanied by pain. Toe fungus can be tricky to treat, and may become re-infected.
The symptoms of toenail fungus are, a thickened toenail, the nail becomes brittle, dull in color, or takes on a dark color. Further, the nail itself may separate from the toe and an unpleasant odor may be present. Left untreated, toe fungus can turn into a chronic condition. If you see white or yellow under the tip of the toenail this is the first sign of toe fungus.
Toe nail fungus is caused by fungi that typically are part of the dermatophytes fungi group. Yet, yeasts and molds can also cause toe fungus. These organisms usually thrive in warm and humid areas, like swimming pools and in the shower. Fungi can enter your skin through tiny cuts on the toes or the space between your nail and the skin below it.
You are at greater risk of being infected with toenail fungus if, you sweat a lot, constantly work in a warm and humid environment, suffer from psoriasis, or wear socks and shoes that do not properly ventilate your foot. Having athlete’s foot also puts you at a greater risk of contracting the fungus. An injury to a toenail furthers the risk, as does diabetes, or poor circulation.
On the whole, toenail fungus if left untreated can lead to other infections, especially for those who have diabetes or a weakened immune system. Symptoms include developing a thickened toenail and the nail can become brittle, especially on the edges. If left untreated the nail can separate from the toe, and may be accompanied with a foul odor.
