What happens if you ignore toenail fungus?

Apr 07, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wan

Introduction

If left untreated, onychomycosis (gray nail) can affect daily life and lead to adverse consequences such as paronychia and the spread of fungal infection. Onychomycosis is a common nail condition caused by fungal infection, typically characterized by symptoms like thickened, deformed, and discolored nails. Without timely treatment, it may result in further nail deformation and discoloration, impairing appearance. Additionally, the nail thickening associated with onychomycosis can interfere with daily activities.

If left untreated, gray nail (onychomycosis) can affect daily life and lead to adverse effects such as paronychia and the spread of fungal infection. The details are as follows:

1. Impact on Daily Life

Gray nail is a common nail condition caused by fungal infection, typically characterized by thickening, deformation, and discoloration of the nails. Without timely treatment, it may cause further deformity and discoloration, affecting appearance. Additionally, nail thickening can interfere with wearing shoes and walking, thus disrupting daily activities.

2. Development of Paronychia

If untreated, the affected nail continues to thicken and turn yellow, increasing the risk of paronychia. The thickest edge of the nail may press into the surrounding soft tissue, causing redness, swelling, pain, and even pus discharge.

3. Spread of Fungal Infection

Since gray nail is caused by fungal infection, failure to treat it promptly may result in the spread of infection to other areas, potentially affecting overall health.

Moreover, gray nail is contagious and can be transmitted to others. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan. Treatment options may include oral medications, topical agents, or surgical intervention. During treatment, maintaining good personal hygiene, keeping nails clean and dry, and avoiding tight footwear or damp socks are advised to prevent recurrence.

Related Articles

View All

Can flower snails still be eaten after they die following storage in the refrigerator?

In general, whether flower snails can be eaten after dying in the refrigerator depends on the storage conditions and how long they have been dead. If any abnormalities are observed, it is recommended to discard them. When purchasing flower snails, choose live ones with shiny shells and opercula that quickly close when touched. After bringing them home, soak them in clean water with a small amount of salt to help remove sand. For short-term storage, keep them in the refrigerator's chiller compartment covered with a damp cloth to maintain moisture.

View Full Answer

Is it dangerous if the eyes are red when having chickenpox?

In general, whether redness of the eyes during chickenpox is dangerous depends on specific symptoms and whether complications have developed. If any discomfort occurs, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Maintain good eye hygiene by gently wiping away eye secretions with a clean cotton swab dipped in normal saline. Keep fingernails short and avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent worsening infection. Limit use of electronic devices and avoid exposure to bright light.

View Full Answer

What causes a white half-moon on the thumb, and what should be done about it?

In general, a white half-moon on the thumb may be caused by factors such as early-stage nail growth, nutritional imbalance, nail dystrophy, onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), or nail psoriasis. Depending on the specific situation, improvement can be achieved through general调理 (regulation), medication, or other treatments. In daily life, it is important to maintain a varied diet to ensure comprehensive nutrient intake and to practice good hand hygiene, avoiding nail trauma and fungal infections.

View Full Answer

What does it mean if there is blood under the toenail without pain, and what should be done?

In general, painless subungual hematoma (blood under the toenail) may be caused by minor trauma, compression from footwear or socks, nail dystrophy, onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), or Raynaud's disease. Treatment options such as conservative management or medication can be selected based on the specific situation. In daily life, it is important to wear comfortable shoes and socks to avoid pressure or injury to the toes, and to maintain a balanced diet to ensure adequate nutrition.

View Full Answer

What causes fluid to leak from under the big toe nail, and what should be done about it?

In general, fluid accumulation under the big toenail may be caused by trauma, moist irritation from non-breathable footwear or socks, paronychia, infected onychomycosis, or pyogenic granuloma. Depending on the specific situation, treatment options such as conservative management, medication, or surgical intervention can be considered to improve the condition. In daily life, it is important to wear breathable shoes and socks, keep the feet dry, avoid toe injuries, and avoid cutting toenails too short.

View Full Answer

Why is my big toenail becoming increasingly thick and bulging, and what should I do about it?

In general, increasing thickening and bulging of the big toenail may be caused by aging, prolonged pressure, onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), nail dystrophy, or nail psoriasis. Depending on the specific situation, patients can choose appropriate treatments such as conservative management, medication, or surgical intervention to improve the condition. In daily life, it is important to wear proper footwear and socks to protect the nails, avoid trauma and compression, and maintain a balanced diet to ensure adequate nutrition.

View Full Answer

What does it mean if nails are round, convex, and large, and what should be done about it?

In general, nails that are round, bulging, and enlarged may be caused by genetic factors, prolonged friction, onychomycosis, clubbing, or nail involvement in psoriasis. Treatment options such as conservative management, medication, or surgical intervention can be selected based on the specific condition. It is important to monitor changes in the nails daily and avoid nail trauma. Keep hands and feet dry to prevent fungal growth.

View Full Answer

What causes a white vertical line on the right thumb, and what should be done about it?

In general, white vertical lines on the right thumb may be caused by nutritional imbalance, physical injury, nail dystrophy, onychomycosis, or lichen planus. Depending on the specific situation, improvement can be achieved through daily care, medication, or physical therapy. It is important to maintain good dietary habits and avoid trauma or irritation to the nails. If the vertical lines continue to deepen or widen, or are accompanied by other discomforts,

View Full Answer

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.