What Are the Different Types of Nail Fungus?

Examples of Nail Fungus

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Type 1: Distal or Lateral Subungual Onychomycosis

Type 2: White Superficial Onychomycosis

Type 3: Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis

With this fungus type, you’ll notice white spots developing toward the center of your nail bed, down by the cuticle of your fingernail or toenail. As the nail continues to grow, the spots will gradually migrate outward.

Proximal subungual onychomycosis is fairly rare. However, people who struggle with immune disorders, including HIV, are most likely to get it.

Type 4: Candidal Onychomycosis

This type of nail fungus is a yeast infection that affects the nails, typically the fingernails. People most often develop it after an injury or illness. If you have candidal onychomycosis, the skin around the affected nail will swell up, becoming red and irritated. In severe cases, you may lose the nail entirely.

Signs You Might Have a Nail Fungus

Not sure whether you’re dealing with a nail fungus? Evaluate yourself for the following signs:

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Fungal infections of the nail rarely hurt at first, so it can be hard to tell if something’s truly wrong. But many infections do get much worse over time, sometimes resulting in severe pain, discomfort, or trouble using the affected food or hand.

Preventing nail fungus is mostly a matter of maintaining good nail hygiene. Keep your nails trimmed, dry, and clean. You should also be mindful of ill-fitting footwear or walking barefoot in damp communal areas like locker rooms.

If you do suspect you have a nail fungus, don’t wait to seek medical attention. Schedule an appointment with Dermatology Affiliates today.

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