Nail fungus and mold bacteria have a lot in common. Nail fungal infections come in  many different shapes, colors, and sizes. They have an array of characteristics. Some of these characteristics fall similar to other types of infections or occurrences on the nails. Mold is one such infection that is confused for a nail fungus. A bacteria known as pseudomonas is responsible for the discoloration on the nails. It is usually a yellow-greenish color, green, or black-green stain. Furthermore, this type of bacteria may also cause a pus or a detachment of the nail from the nail bed.

Mold Bacteria

Pseudomonas is typically the result of a bacteria that is water-borne. This means that it is transmitted through water and thrives in moist and warm environments. This particular infection is more commonly seen with acrylic/artificial nails. Since the acrylic/artificial ingredients cause lifting, which allows moisture to easily enter and infecting the natural nail.

Warning Symptoms

If you notice a change of any kind in the nails you should contact a healthcare professional. Be sure of what you have. If in fact it is a fungal infection, treatment options are available. A home remedy of a vinegar soak might do the trick. Simply mix half vinegar and half water together in a small tub (or bowl if occurring on the fingernails). Allow the nails to soak for about five minutes. You may do this until you see a change in the nail. However, if no change is seen after a month or two you should consider seeking professional help and make sure this is the case. Nail fungus and mold bacteria have a lot in common.

Fighting Toenail Fungus

Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus

If you have caught nail fungus as well, it can be easily treated using the FDA-approved PinPointe laser, which typically only takes on treatment. Other treatments are topical solutions or oral medication. Topical solutions have a very low cure rate. This is because the solution does not penetrate all the way under the nail bed. All the fungus must die to be cured. Oral medication has a better cure rate, but it can lead to liver toxicity. 

Our toenail doctor in Manhattan, NY recommends this treatment. The PinPointe Laser treatment has the highest cure rate in the market. It has no side effects and no recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after the treatment. Also, it is not painful.

If you have any signs of nail fungus, call us at (800) 672-0625 or visit our website for more information on our doctors at one of our over 160 locations.