Everything You Need To Know About Fungal Nails

What causes Fungal Nails?

Fungi called dermatophytes live harmlessly, but can often multiply and lead to fungal nail infections especially in dark, warm and moist environments such as your feet when wearing shoes and socks. Certain shoes can make feet hot and sweaty, which can lead to fungi multiplying quickly. Not keeping your feet clean and dry can also increase infection risk, even when practicing the nail care basics.

What will happen if I leave it untreated?

The nail structure can become discoloured with the nail turning white, yellow, green or even black. The whole nail anatomy can also change and become thickened, and the texture could change, making it difficult to trim. The shape of the nail can also vary, which can cause discomfort when placing pressure on the toes that are affected. If left untreated, the infection will progress but don't worry, nail fungus infections are treatable in a variety of ways without causing too much overall nail trauma and often without complete nail removal.

What are the treatment options?

Oral Anti-fungal

Your GP can prescribe these, although this is dependant on any other medications that you may have.

Topical Anti-fungal

We can advise and sell a topical treatment for you to paint on to the nail. It's essential that we prepare the nail for you to begin the topical treatment.

Nail Fenestration

This involves making tiny holes within the nail, allowing the liquid anti-fungal treatment to penetrate the nail bed to the fungal spores. Lamisil is applied daily until the nail is clear.

What can help?

Keeping feet clean and dry can help to reduce the risk of developing nail fungus. Wearing shoes made from breathable and natural materials and cotton socks will help your feet to breathe.

Fungal residue can build up in towels and socks. Therefore they must be regularly cleaned and not shared with other people otherwise you could end up with more infected nails.

If you are think you may have a fungal nail issue, book an appointment with us today.

*This blog contains general information about medical conditions and is not advice. You must not rely upon the information in this blog as medical advice. Medical advice should always be sought from an appropriately qualified podiatrist such as ourselves.