Fungal infections of the toenails may not present any threat to general health, but they are unsightly and many patients under my care have found them embarrassing and upsetting, so I am sympathetic. It is known as dermatomycosis, which refers to any fungal infection of the skin, hair follicles or nails.
There are several fungi that cause infection in these areas. Some belong to a group called dermatophytes — these invade tissues containing the protein keratin and trigger infections such as athlete’s foot or ringworm.
oenail fungus is caused by an overgrowth of yeast organisms. In my experience, the problem is normally a sign that yeast is active elsewhere in the body, particularly the gut. Another symptom of excess yeast in the body generally is itching in the skin. What this means is that your toenail fungus and generalized skin itching may indeed be linked.
The reservoir for yeast in the body is the digestive tract. Tackling the yeast here can, therefore, help to shift fungal infections on the skin. I would advise you to avoid all foods that feed yeast such as sugar, refined carbohydrates such as white bread and pasta, and alcohol.
