Diabetes can affect circulation and nerve function. When blood flow is reduced or sensation is limited, even minor infections may become harder to detect and treat. One condition that people with diabetes may develop is nail fungus. In this article, our experts will cover what you should know, from its definition to treatment options.
What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is a fungal infection that affects the toenails or fingernails. The infection develops when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin and grow beneath the nail surface.
These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. As such, toenails are affected more often than fingernails.
Common ways you can get toenail fungus include walking around swimming pools, walking barefoot in public areas, and using public locker rooms or showers.
Signs of Nail Fungus
Nail fungus changes the appearance of the infected nail. Your nails may:
- Appear white, yellow, or brown
- Become brittle and crack or crumble
- Lift up from the nail bed
- Thicken and possibly look misshapen
If left untreated, it can become painful, cause the nail to turn black, and result in permanent nail damage. It can also spread to other areas of the foot, leading to more complications. Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal infection that causes an itchy, stinging, burning rash on the skin of one or both feet. Cellulitis infects the skin and deep tissues, making the skin swollen, painful, and warm to the touch, and can even cause a fever and chills.
Why People With Diabetes Are More Prone
Diabetics are at an increased risk of developing toenail fungus due to several factors.
- Weakened Immune System: Diabetes can impair the body’s ability to fight infections, including fungal infections of the nails.
- Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow to the feet limits the delivery of oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells needed to help the body respond to infections.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve damage can reduce sensation in the feet, making it harder to notice small injuries.
- Elevated Blood Sugar Levels: High blood sugar creates conditions that promote fungal growth, as fungi thrive on sugar.
Preventing Diabetes-Related Foot Problems
Keeping blood sugar levels well managed and maintaining a consistent foot care routine are key for people with diabetes. Regular visits with a diabetes healthcare provider will help guide your management plan, and tools like continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can make management easier.
Simple daily habits also help protect your feet. Check them for cuts, sores, or changes, wash and dry your feet thoroughly, trim nails straight across, and wear properly fitting shoes and socks. You can also support better circulation by elevating your feet when sitting, wiggling your toes, and staying active with gentle exercise.
Treatment Options for Toenail Fungus
Treating toenail fungus is notoriously difficult, and it could take several months to resolve. A podiatrist can recommend the best treatment plan for you.
- Oral Medication: A prescribed oral antifungal medication can be taken daily for several months to treat the fungus. Since these medications can affect the liver and interact with other medications, they’re not for everyone.
- Topical Medication: Regularly applying a topical medication to the nail is another treatment method. It’s most effective when paired with an oral medication.
- Laser Treatment: A healthcare provider can use a specialized laser to penetrate the nail and target the fungus beneath it. Laser therapy, an in-office procedure, is a non-invasive option that is typically considered after other treatments have been unsuccessful.
A Modern Option: PinPointe™ FootLaser®
Advances in podiatric care have introduced more effective ways to treat nail fungus. A modern treatment option is PinPointe™ FootLaser®, the first FDA-cleared laser treatment for toenail fungus.
This in-office procedure takes about 30 minutes, is nearly painless, and has minimal side effects. While other treatments struggle to reach the fungus, PinPointe™ FootLaser® safely penetrates the nail itself, directly addressing the root of the issue.
Find Relief at The Foot & Ankle Center
Nail fungus doesn’t go away on its own, and without treatment, it can worsen and spread to other nails. Fortunately, with the right care, you can put it behind you and achieve clear, healthy nails.
The Foot & Ankle Center helps patients restore their nail health with thorough evaluations and personalized treatment plans designed to address the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. This may include using our in-office PinPointe™ FootLaser® for laser therapy.
Safe and effective options are available to help you find relief. Call (314) 487-9300 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment with a team committed to helping you move comfortably and live confidently.