What is Nail Fungus?

Nail Fungus is caused by three types of fungi: dermatophytes, yeasts, and non-dermatophyte moulds. Fungi are simple parasitic plant organisms that do not need sunlight to grow. Toenails are particularly susceptible as fungi prefer dark damp places. Swimming pools, changing rooms and showers typically harbour these types of fungi. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, problems with the circulatory system, immune deficiency disease as well as a history of athlete's foot or excess perspiration also increase the chances of developing nail fungus.

Nail fungus typically occurs more in older people because the ageing process causes nails to become less moisturised and for cracks to appear. This is why children are less susceptible to nail fungus because their nails are usually stronger, healthier and without cracks. If nails are cracked, naturally fragile or weakened as a result of an injury, it is easier for the fungi to infect the nail.

Nail fungus does not usually go away by itself and complications may arise if left untreated. Nail fungus can be painful and cause permanent damage to nails. A common complication is an ingrown nail.

Nail fungus can create an abnormally shaped toenail that then becomes ingrown. An ingrown nail grows into the skin instead of over it. This usually happens to the big toe but it can also occur in others nails too. An ingrown toenail can become infected making it red, swollen and containing pus. People with curved or thick nails are more likely to have an ingrown toenail and this is more common in older adults.