Fungal Nails
Fungal nail, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails. It is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes, which can also cause athlete's foot and ringworm.
Fungal nail infections typically start as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the toenail or fingernail. As the infection progresses, the nail may become thick, discolored, and brittle. In some cases, the nail may also become distorted and separated from the nail bed.
What are fungal nails?
There are a few types of fungal nail presentations. These include Distal or lateral subungual onychomycosis, White superficial onychomycosis, Proximal subungual, Candida onychomycosis.
Along with discolouration, the nail shape and texture may change, causing lifting, splitting, thickening and curving of the nail.
Why does this happen?
Fungal nail infections are more common in older adults and people with weakened immune systems. They can also occur in people who frequently expose their feet to warm and moist environments, such as athletes and swimmers.
We also see an increase of fungal nail infections in those who frequent nail salons. Application of long-lasting gel colours can stop air flow and light exposure to the nail resulting in a dark, damp and warm environment that fungal spores thrive in.
Additionally, nail salons are often lax in their sterilisation procedures resulting in the sharing unsterile tools, and nasty fungal spores, between their customers!
Patients who are spend long hours in closed in shoes, or who feet are always in damp environments have an increased risk of catching this condition.
The gold standard in treatment for fungal infections is Laser Therapy. Laser is safe, pain-free, and can only be administered by a qualified Podiatrist.
How can we help?
In clinic we will assess the history and the current infection by doing a Diafactory test. This will determine the correct treatment plan that we will design for you, to get you back to healthy nails.
Your plan may include Nail Laser therapy, burring or reducing the thickness of the nail in clinic, topical anti-fungal solutions to use at home, modification of your footwear, and general foot care education.
Laser Therapy for fungal nails
Simple and safe; Laser Therapy is your non-invasive and clinically effective treatment for fungal toe nail infections.
It works by producing a light wave that is absorbed by pigmented fungal infections to gently heat and inhibit further growth.
Results vary depending on type, length, severity of the infection, as well as your medical history.
Click here to find out more about Laser Therapy for fungal infections.