Ringworm of The Nail

Dermatophytes, causes about 90% of all fungal nail infections. The most common dermatophyte, Trichophyton rubrum, causes most cases of athlete's foot infection, which in turn can infect the toenails. It is the same fungus that causes several types of ringworm infections. Dermatophytes are a type of fungus that can grow on the skin, hair, and nails. They do not invade the deeper tissues of the body. Dermatophytes can be transmitted by direct contact or by contact with objects such as clothing, shoes, nail clippers, nail files, shower and locker room floors, and carpet.

Ringworm of the nail (nail fungal infection) is a condition that is usually a long term fungal disease and is very difficult to treat. It usually affects one or more nails of the hands or feet. Toenails are more likely to become infected when ingrown or injured, as from frequent nail trimming.

A condition called onycholysis, the separation of the nail from the skin beneath, can increase the risk of fungal nail infections. Toenails are also more likely to become infected as they grow slower and are usually in prime growing ground with the warmth and moisture provided by most footwear. Infection is much more common on the toenails than on the fingernails. An infected toenail may separate from the toenail bed, crumble, or flake off.

Other scientific terms for ringworm of the nails are: tinea unguium, onychomycosis or dermatophytosis unguium. The fungi that cause ringworm are able to feed on keratin - the main protein in nails, hair and the outer layer of the skin.

Symptoms of Ringworm of The Nail

A whitish thickening of the nail and nail-bed. The fungus may get into the nail, producing a thickened, lusterless, and deformed nail. Fungal nail infections can cause the affected nail to thicken, crack and become discolored, streaked, or spotted. Symptoms may include yellow streaks under the nail, a buildup of bits and pieces of skin and nail fragments under the nail, a discolored and thickened nail that may separate from the skin.

Toenail infections can become very unsightly and can make wearing narrow or tight fitting shoes very uncomfortable and sometimes painful. A long term nail infection can cause permanent nail damage. As it invades more of a nail, it becomes more difficult to cure. An untreated nail infection can also spread to other nails and skin.

Risk Factors of Ringworm of The Nail

Impaired immune system. Impaired immune systems are caused by certain diseases, such as AIDS, diabetes, or cancer, or certain immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids. Poor blood circulation caused by disease or increasing age. People older than 60 are more likely to have a fungal nail infection.

How to Decrease Your Chances of Getting Ringworm of The Nail?

Do not wearing shoes that are to tight fitting. Take shoes off as often as possible to allow them to air dry. Wearing shoes that make your feet warm and sweaty. Change shoes and socks frequently (everyday). Rotate shoes between several different pairs if possible.

Do not: Share personal items such as shoes, socks, nail clippers, or nail files with other people.

Do not: Use public showers or other peoples showers without shower sandals or shower shoes.

Do not: Trim the nails to frequently. Injuring the nail (as in the case of frequent nail trimming).

If you have athlete's foot take care of it before it spreads to your nails.

How is a Ringworm of The Nails Diagnosed?

Your health professional will diagnose a fungal nail infection by looking at the nail, taking a history of your condition, and possibly testing for the presence of fungi. A smear or scrape may be taken for microscopic examination and culture in the laboratory to identify the type of fungus. An accurate diagnosis is important to determine the cause of a nail problem and the best treatment for it. About 50% of all nail infections are caused by fungi.

How is Ringworm of The Nails Treated?

A fungal nail infection is treated with antifungal medication. For milder infections, you may put a cream or lacquer (topical medication) directly on the nail area. However, topical forms are not always effective. Antifungal pills offer the best chance of a cure, but they can cause dangerous side effects. In severe cases, your health professional may remove the affected nail and treat the exposed nail bed with antifungal medication. Nail removal is rarely necessary.

What Else is Available to Fight Ringworm of The Nails?

Tea Tree Oil and Grapefruit Seed Extract are also frequently used against nail infections. They work very well together because they are both effective against fungal infections. The advantage is that the Tea Tree Oil is naturally able to penetrate very deeply into the nail bed and it works as carrier for the grapefruit seed extract. So now you have a dual strength antifungal! We sell combination orders of both Tea Tree Oil and Grapefruit Seed Extract.

Tea Tree Oil and Grapefruit Seed Extract are not mixed together when purchased, they are in separate bottles. You would put a few drops of Grapefruit Seed Extract on your nail and let it soak in followed by a few drops of Tea Tree Oil to help penetrate the nail bed.

Please feel free to contact us at 360 826 4389 with any questions or comments you may have or to place an order. Business hours Monday - Friday (9AM - 6PM) Pacific Time & (12PM - 9PM) Eastern Time. This site last updated 11/30/08.

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The statements and information provided on this website has not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information contained on this Website is not intended to provide or replace medical advice from a licensed Physician.

Ringworm of The Nail

What Causes Ringworm of The Nail?

Symptoms of Ringworm of The Nail

Risk Factors of Ringworm of The Nail

How to Decrease Your Chances of Getting Ringworm of The Nail?

How is a Ringworm of The Nails Diagnosed?

How is Ringworm of The Nails Treated?

What Else is Available to Fight Ringworm of The Nails?