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Nail fungus often begins as a small white or yellow spot on the nail. It can grow and make the nail thick, weak, and painful. Some people feel only mild changes, but others feel pain and have trouble walking. Many patients in Phoenix, AZ, come to us when their nail fungus becomes severe. They wait too long, and the problem gets worse. Here, we explain everything you need to know so you can be aware and take action before it’s too late.
Is nail fungus dangerous to your health?
In most healthy people, nail fungus in Phoenix, AZ, stays on the nail and does not cause serious health problems. It usually grows slowly and mostly changes how the nail looks and feels. But in people with diabetes, poor blood flow, or weak immune systems, it can become dangerous. The fungus can break the skin and allow bacteria to get in.
This may cause deeper infections, open wounds, and slow healing. In these cases, nail fungus is not just a nail problem. It becomes a real health risk. That is why doctors take it seriously, especially for people with other medical conditions.
When Is Nail Fungus Considered Dangerous?
Nail fungus in Arizona can become dangerous when it starts to cause pain or spread. It may also lead to infections, especially in people with diabetes or poor blood flow. Here are the signs to watch for:
- Swelling around the nail
- Redness or warmth in the toe
- Fluid or pus coming from the nail
- Thick nails that press against the skin
- Pain when wearing shoes or walking
- Nail lifting away from the skin
- Infection spreading to other nails
- Nails becoming misshaped or permanently damaged
Can Nail Fungus Spread to Other Parts of the Body?
Nail fungus in Phoenix, AZ, does not always stay in one spot. If you dont treat it, the infection spreads to other parts of your foot or even to your hands. It moves through contact, shared items, or from one area of the body to another. Here are the parts it can spread to:
- Other toenails
- Fingernails
- Skin between the toes
- Bottom of the foot
- Broken skin near the nail
What Happens If You Don’t Treat Nail Fungus?
If you ignore nail fungus, it gets worse over time. The infection will not go away on its own. The nail can change, hurt, or lead to bigger problems. It can also spread and cause more damage to your foot. Here are the possible complications:
- Nail becomes thick, dark, and damaged
- Pain when walking or wearing shoes
- Shoes may no longer fit well
- Fungus spreads to other nails or skin
- Nail lifts from the skin or falls off
- Skin around the nail breaks open
- Bacteria enters and causes infection
- Infection may need antibiotics or surgery
- Treatment becomes harder and slower
Last Word
Nail fungus can be dangerous. In some people, the infection stays mild, but in others, it causes pain, damage, or serious infections. People with health problems like diabetes face a higher risk because their feet are more sensitive to infections. Even if there are no symptoms at first, the fungus can grow and spread over time. It may lead to bigger problems if ignored.
Seeing our best foot doctors in Phoenix, AZ, as soon as you notice nail changes helps you avoid these risks. At Foot and Ankle Specialty Centers, Dr. Payam Sarraf and his team help to protect your health and keep your feet safe.
FAQs
Can nail fungus come back after treatment?
Yes, nail fungus can return if you don’t follow prevention steps like keeping your feet clean and dry.
Is nail fungus contagious through nail salons?
Yes, nail fungus can spread in salons that do not use clean tools or disinfect foot baths properly.
How long does it take to fully get rid of nail fungus?
It may take several months because the nail needs time to grow out after the fungus clears.
Can nail fungus affect your ability to walk or wear shoes?
Yes, thick or painful nails can make it hard to walk or wear closed shoes comfortably.
Are over-the-counter antifungal creams enough?
Sometimes they help with mild cases, but many people need stronger treatment from a podiatrist.
Can untreated nail fungus cause permanent nail damage?
Yes, if left untreated, the fungus can destroy the nail and damage the nail bed, making it hard for the nail to grow back normally.
