A common problem seen by a podiatrist is thickening and discoloration of the nails. This is often caused by a fungal infection. Fungal infections can affect anyone, and can be contracted from many different places.

Fungal infections are most often seen in the elderly population. The reason for this is that the body's natural defense systems against the fungal infections have decreased over time. With decreased circulation the body is unable to deliver the defense cells to the feet. This leaves an opportunity for fungal infections to grow and thrive. Though it is more prevalent in the elderly population is seen in every age group, and ethnic group.

The appearance of fungal nails can vary. Often it starts with a discoloration of the nail. This discoloration can vary as well. Some discolorations are white and have a spotted pattern to them. In others the discoloration is yellow and takes up the entire nail. Following the discoloration period the nail starts to thicken. This is due to the fungus metabolizing the nail and causing a buildup of debris. These thickened nails can become painful especially in certain shoe gear. The buildup can also affect the sides of the nails and cause increased pressure and pain.

It is difficult to say exactly where a person contracts a fungal infection. Potential places include public pools, walking outside with bare feet, lakes or streams, public restrooms and showers, and even your own bathroom or home floors. Fungus is actually growing almost everywhere. For this reason prevention by avoidance is very difficult.

There are steps that you can take to decrease the chances of fungal infections. First, always wear shoes in public places. This especially includes gym locker rooms. The term athlete's foot refers to a fungal infection of the feet. It got its name because of the prevalence in people who walk in locker rooms with bare feet. Second, keep your feet dry. Changing your socks when they've become moist with sweat will decrease the chances of fungus growing around the feet. Fungus enjoys a warm wet environment. If your skin is too dry it can cause cracks in the protective layer around your feet. This is a route for fungus to enter the skin and eventually the nails. Thirdly, if you start to notice a discoloration or other problem see your podiatrist quickly. Often early detection will allow treatment with topical ointments and not oral medications.

There are several treatments for fungal nails. The first is topical treatments. There are over-the-counter topical treatments which have mild effectiveness on early detected fungal problems. There are topical treatments that are only sold in doctor's offices that have greater effectiveness at clearing the infection. In the cases of severe infections, some will need oral medications. These oral medications are taken for three months once a day and blood tests are required during the course.

The key to treating and preventing fungal nails is early detection and creating an environment which does not lend itself to fungus growing.