Toenail Fungus

This is an infection of the nail unit mainly caused by dermatophytes, but also by yeasts and mold fungi, and it can affect one or multiple nails simultaneously.

It belongs to superficial fungal infections and is classified as a chronic and recurrent condition, which can significantly reduce quality of life.

Causes of Toenail Fungus

Local: impaired blood circulation in the limbs in diabetics or peripheral artery disease, excessive sweating or dry skin, skin diseases (e.g., psoriasis or lichen planus), incorrect foot alignment from an orthopedic perspective.

Environmental: humidity and high temperature, use of public baths or saunas, wearing shoes made of synthetic materials, socks/stockings that do not allow air circulation, inadequate or insufficient hygiene habits, taking certain medications such as antibiotics or cytostatics.

Systemic: immune disorders, endocrine diseases such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and iatrogenic factors.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

• Thickened or atrophic nail plate changes
• Deformations of nail surface shape
• Discoloration (chromonychia) – yellow-brown, milky yellow, or green-brown
• Thickened, matte, and ridged nail plate
• Brittleness and fragility of nails (onychodystrophy)

Care Recommendations

• Plastic or rubber home shoes that can be disinfected and washed (separate for shower and home use)
• Use a nail care product recommended by your podiatrist according to mycological test results
• Wash socks, towels, and bedding at 60°C (140°F)
• Have all your shoes ozonated at a laundry service or disinfect them yourself using formalin
• Wear cotton or silver-ion socks and change them at least 1–2 times a day (composition: 80–90% cotton)
• Wear cotton or silver-ion socks and change them at least 1–2 times a day (composition: 80–90% cotton)
• Wear everyday shoes made of breathable materials
• Recommended medical foot care at the clinic – once a month