Fungal Nail and Foot

Fungal Nail Treatment

What is a fungal nail infection?

A fungal nail infection causes a nail to become discoloured, thickened and, in some cases, detached from the nail bed.  It is a result of fungus that specifically infects keratin (found in skin, hair and nails). Sometimes other organisms such as moulds and yeasts (candida) can also be present

Why do I have this infection?

• Fungal nail infections are usually, but not exclusively, spread from fungal skin infections such as athletes foot. 

• They are more likely to infect damaged nails (either damage from a single incident – dropping something on your toe

• The result of repeated damage through footwear – steal toecap boots, shoes that are too small, running/walking damage)

• Fungal nail infections also occur more often in people who have underlying health conditions 

• Interestingly fungal toe nail infections are more prevalent in countries with longer winters. This would make sense, as light kills fungus, where as warm damp environments encourage it.

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Although some people choose to live with the unsightly infection, if left for a period of time, the infection could spread to the nail bed. There are studies to indicate fungal nails are a risk factor for developing cellulitis (spreading infection) particularly in people with diabetes and peripheral vascular disease.

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After having assessed the fungal infection, I can begin treating the cause and enable you to continue treatment at home.

Contact me to find out more or to book an appointment