top of page
Search

Toenail Fungus: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

  • Writer: Gellis Jerome
    Gellis Jerome
  • Aug 25
  • 2 min read
A nurse holding a client's Feet, and a nail file, filling the top of the client's feet
A nurse holding a client's Feet, and a nail file, filling the top of the client's feet

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is more common than many people realize — and it can be both stubborn and uncomfortable. While healthy toenails are pink, smooth, and shiny, a fungal infection can cause nails to become thick, brittle, discolored, and even painful.

At Foot Care Nurse with Gellis, we help clients across Brampton and the surrounding GTA manage and treat toenail fungus effectively.


What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus is usually caused by dermatophytes (fungi) or yeast infecting the nail bed. Common risk factors may include:

  • Walking barefoot in damp public places like pools, locker rooms, and showers.

  • Spread from athlete’s foot.

  • Wearing closed, sweaty shoes for long periods.

  • Tight shoes that damage the nail bed.

  • Health conditions such as diabetes or poor circulation.


Symptoms to Watch For

Fungal nail infections can start slowly and worsen over time. Look for:

  • Yellow, white, or darkened nails

  • Thick or misshapen nails

  • Brittle or crumbling nail edges

  • Loss of natural shine

  • Foul odor

  • Pain in the toes

  • Nail lifting away from the nail bed

If your toenail turns brown or black or causes significant pain, it’s time to see a professional.


Treatment Options

Home Remedies (for early stages): Suggestions only, Home remedies may or may not work for everyone

  • Tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil – natural antifungal properties.

  • Ozonized sunflower oil – effective for yeast-based infections.

  • Baking soda paste – slows fungal growth.

  • Vicks VapoRub – small studies show improvement.

  • Vinegar or hydrogen peroxide – widely used but less clinically proven.


Over-the-Counter Medications: Look for creams, sprays, or ointments with:

  • Tolnaftate (Tinactin)

  • Clotrimazole (Lotrimin)

  • Terbinafine (Lamisil)


Prescription & Advanced Care By Your Care Provider

  • Stronger topical or oral antifungal medications.

  • Laser treatment to improve appearance.

  • Nail removal (temporary or permanent in severe cases).


Preventing Recurrence

Toenail fungus has a recurrence rate of up to 40%, so prevention is key:

  • Wash and dry feet thoroughly every day.

  • Wear shower shoes in public spaces.

  • Choose breathable, well-fitting shoes.

  • Change damp socks quickly.

  • Disinfect nail tools.

  • Treat athlete’s foot promptly.


If you’re struggling with toenail fungus or have symptoms that aren’t improving, don’t wait.Foot Care Nurse with Gellis provides professional, compassionate foot care services in Brampton and across the GTA.

📞 Call or text: 416-742-9931

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page