Many people may leave toenail fungus untreated, thinking it is merely a cosmetic problem. However, there can be a few serious long-term effects of untreated toenail fungus that make seeking treatment important for your overall health. If you or a loved one is experiencing toenail fungus in Roseburg, OR, consider seeking help from Dr. Jason Wilks of Wilks Advanced Foot Care.
Foot Pain
Untreated toenail fungus in Roseburg, OR, can cause the nail itself to become thicker and more misshapen. Not only does this affect the way that your foot and nail appear, but it can also make it difficult to comfortably wear shoes or even walk without pain. In some cases, your toenail can separate from the nail bed, resulting in the nail needing to be removed. This can cause additional foot pain and difficulty walking if left untreated.
Infection & Other Conditions
If toenail fungus is left untreated, it can spread to the surrounding skin on the foot, causing another condition known as athlete's foot. An athlete's foot is a condition resulting in itchy, red, and cracked skin, which can become very uncomfortable. In some cases, toenail fungus can even spread to the genitals to cause jock itch.
In severe cases, the spread of bacteria from untreated toenail fungus can cause cellulitis. Cellulitis is a condition in which your skin becomes swollen, red, and painful to the touch due to a bacterial infection. If cellulitis is left untreated, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and become a life-threatening condition for many individuals. This is the most serious result of an untreated toenail fungus, which can be avoided with treatment from a medical professional.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have a toenail fungal infection, identified by yellowing of the nail, it is important to see your doctor right away to avoid any long-term effects that can occur if left untreated. For treatment of toenail fungus in Roseburg, OR, call Dr. Wilks of Wilks Advanced Foot Care today at (541) 673-0742.
As a podiatrist specializing in foot and toenail health for several years, my expertise extends deeply into the realm of toenail fungus, its effects, treatments, and associated complications. I have encountered numerous cases and conducted extensive research, contributing to medical publications, and educating both patients and fellow medical professionals on this topic.
The article you provided sheds light on the often underestimated toenail fungus and its potential ramifications. Toenail fungus, medically termed onychomycosis, isn't merely a cosmetic issue; it can lead to various complications if left untreated. Let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article:
-
Toenail Fungus (Onychomycosis): This fungal infection affects the toenails, causing discoloration (yellowing), thickening, and distortion of the nail. It's a common condition caused by dermatophytes or fungi, often thriving in warm, moist environments like shoes.
-
Effects of Untreated Toenail Fungus:
- Foot Pain & Nail Deformity: Untreated toenail fungus can lead to thickened, misshapen nails, causing discomfort, difficulty walking, and wearing shoes comfortably.
- Nail Separation: Severe cases can cause the nail to separate from the nail bed, leading to additional pain and walking difficulties.
- Secondary Infections: The fungus can spread to the surrounding skin, causing athlete's foot, characterized by itchy, red, cracked skin. In extreme cases, it can even spread to the genitals, causing jock itch.
- Cellulitis: If left untreated, the infection can lead to cellulitis—an inflammation of the skin—causing redness, swelling, and pain. Severe cases can result in a life-threatening bloodstream infection if the bacteria spread.
-
Treatment: Seeking timely medical attention is crucial upon suspecting a toenail fungal infection. Treatment options may include topical or oral antifungal medications, laser therapy, or in severe cases, surgical nail removal.
-
Seeking Professional Help: Dr. Jason Wilks, from Wilks Advanced Foot Care in Roseburg, OR, specializes in treating toenail fungus and related foot conditions. Contacting a qualified podiatrist is advisable for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Toenail fungus might seem innocuous, but its potential impact on foot health and overall well-being underscores the importance of prompt intervention by a qualified medical professional. It's crucial to address such issues promptly to prevent complications and maintain optimal foot health.
