Nail Infections

Nail infections are more common in adults, but can happen in children, too. Most nail infections are caused by a fungus.

Fungal infections:

• Are more likely in toenails than fingernails. That’s because a fungus is more likely to grow in warm and wet places which might happen if you wear shoes or boots that make your feet hot and sweaty.
• Can be picked up at pools or in public showers. It’s best to wear flip flops or pool shoes to prevent being exposed to a fungus.
• May make a nail turn white, green, yellow or black, and the nail may separate from the nail bed.

Bacteria and other types of germs can cause nail infections, too. This type of infection usually causes redness, swelling and pain around the nails.

Nail infections are difficult to treat. Topical creams you can buy without a prescription usually don’t work. A nail infection usually requires a trip to the dermatologist, who will prescribe treatment. For fungal infections, treatment may include:

• Topical anti-fungal medicine that comes in several forms, including lacquers (painted on the nail like polish), gels, lotions or creams.
• Oral anti-fungal medicine, which tends to be more effective.
• Both topical and oral anti-fungal medicine.

Be patient. Treatment can take three months or more. Nails grow slowly, so it may be months before you see improvement.

For a bacterial infection, the dermatologist may prescribe an antibiotic.

The best approach is prevention. Keep the nails clean and dry to try to avoid infections in the first place.

 

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