Fungal toeNail treatment
Fungal nail infections are common and can cause changes to the colour, texture and thickness of the toenails. They can be persistent, but treatment options are available and a podiatrist can help you understand the most appropriate approach.
What is a fungal toenail infection?
A fungal nail infection, medically known as onychomycosis, occurs when fungi infect the nail. It can affect one or several nails and often develops gradually.
How do you get a fungal toenail infection?
Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Infection can spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces, such as communal changing rooms, swimming pools and showers. It can also develop following athlete’s foot, as the fungus can spread from the skin to the nails.
How can you identify one?
A fungal nail may become yellow, white or brown and can become thickened, brittle, crumbly or distorted. The nail may also separate from the nail bed. However, these changes can occur for reasons other than fungal infection, so an assessment can help determine whether fungal infection is likely.
How can we help?
We can assess your nails and where fungal infection is suspected, we can reduce excessive thickness and safely trim and file the affected nails to improve comfort and appearance. This then allows for a better application of topical antifungal treatments.
Treatment can take time because the affected nail needs to grow out. Good foot hygiene, keeping feet dry and avoiding sharing towels, footwear or nail equipment can also help reduce the risk of spreading infection.
If you suspect you have a fungal nail infection, particularly if it is spreading, painful or affecting several nails, a podiatry assessment can help you understand your options.