Guidelines

Is toenail fungus a symptom of diabetes?

Is toenail fungus a symptom of diabetes?

High blood sugar levels alter immunity or resistance to fungal infection, making foot care an important key to maintaining overall good health for everyone with Type 2 diabetes. Toenail fungus is not, in itself, a sign of diabetes, but diabetics are more susceptible to toenail fungus.

Can excess sugar cause toenail fungus?

As you may have expected, sugar is a huge category to avoid since it only makes growth of the fungus worse. Eating these foods will also boost the immune system, which will in turn further fight the fungus away. Toenail fungus should be treated as soon as possible to prevent the onset of extreme odor and discoloration.

How do you treat diabetic toenails?

Another option is to take an oral antifungal drug. Combining an oral drug with a topical one you rub on your nails may increase the chance of curing the infection. Terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox) are both considered safe for people with diabetes.

What foods prevent nail fungus?

Some foods to include in a nail-healthful diet:

  • any food rich in calcium and vitamin D.
  • fatty acids found in oily fish, such as salmon.
  • yogurts that contain probiotics.
  • food rich in lean protein to help nail growth.
  • foods rich in iron to help prevent brittle nails, such as spinach.

Does fungus really cause diabetes?

Anyone can develop a fungal skin infection, but people with diabetes are more prone to them. A common cause of fungal infections in those with diabetes is the yeast-like fungus Candida albicans that thrives in moist and warm folds of skin.

Are diabetics more prone to suffering from toenail fungus?

Many studies illustrate the frequency of toenail fungus in diabetics. People who have diabetes are much more likely to develop toenail fungus than people who don’t have diabetes. Diabetics need to understand that toenail fungus is much more than a cosmetic problem. A person who has diabetes is much more likely to suffer serious complications caused by the fungus.

Is toenail fungus dangerous for diabetics?

If left untreated, toenail fungus can lead to a more serious infection and may spread to other nails. This ailment is especially dangerous to anyone who suffers from diabetes, but can pose a serious danger to anyone who does not seek proper treatment. In addition, toenail fungus may cause permanent nail damage.

Why do diabetics lose their toenails?

The answer to the question, as to, why do diabetics lose their toes is due to the fact that the poison high levels of blood sugar damages the circulation. The circulation damage can lead to swelling,sores and possible gangrene .