Mengapa Kuku Rapuh dan Menguning? Waspadai Infeksi Jamur Kuku

by: dr. Amaranila Lalita Drijono, Sp.KK, FINSDV, FAADV 

Nail fungus is an infection of the fingernails or toenails, also known as onychomycosis. This condition is characterized by the appearance of white or yellow spots on the tips of the nails, which over time cause the nails to thicken, discolor, become brittle, and sometimes develop an unpleasant odor.
Nail fungus typically thrives in warm, moist areas and can be treated with prescription antifungal medications or through medical procedures such as nail removal.

Symptoms of Nail Fungus:

• Color changes: Nails may turn yellow, brown, white, or greenish.
• Thickening: Nails become thicker and more difficult to cut.
• Shape changes: Nails may appear brittle, scaly, or irregular.
• Odor: Sometimes accompanied by an unpleasant odor.
• Pain: In severe cases, the infection can cause pain or discomfort.

Causes of Nail Fungus

• Moist and warm environments: These conditions favor the growth of fungus, especially on toenails that are often covered by shoes.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to fungal infections.
• Direct contact: The infection can spread through skin-to-skin contact or through objects contaminated with the fungus.

Nail Fungus Treatment

1. Prescription medications

• Oral antifungal medications (tablets): For example, terbinafine or fluconazole, which work to eradicate the fungus from the body.
• Topical antifungal medications: Such as antifungal creams, ointments, or nail polishes (e.g., ciclopirox) that are applied directly to the infected nail.

2. Medical procedures

• Debridement (nail cleaning): To remove the infected part of the nail.
• Nail removal: Necessary if the infection is severe, painful, or unresponsive to treatment.
• Laser therapy: An effective, modern method, usually showing results within three treatments. At the Skin & Laser Clinic at Premier Bintaro Hospital, nail fungus treatment using advanced laser technology is available to help eradicate fungal infections optimally.

3. Home Care

Maintaining foot hygiene, regularly changing socks, wearing comfortable footwear, and keeping nails dry can help prevent and alleviate fungal infections.

Treatment Stages by a Doctor

1. Diagnosis: The doctor will examine the condition of the nail directly and, if necessary, take a nail sample to confirm a fungal infection.
2. Determining therapy: Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor will determine the most appropriate type of treatment, which may include medication, laser therapy, or other medical procedures.

When to See Doctor

See a doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of nail fungus, especially if the infection persists, worsens, or causes pain. Prompt medical treatment can prevent the infection from worsening and help your nails grow back healthily.

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