Fungal Nails: How To Treat Nail Fungus

Fungal Nail Infections: A Podiatrist's Guide to Prevention and Treatment

Fungal nail infections are one of the most common conditions seen by podiatrists. They most often affect the toenails and can cause changes in the nail's colour, thickness and appearance. While fungal nail infections are rarely serious, they can be difficult to treat if left unchecked.

Recognising the early signs and starting appropriate treatment as soon as possible can help improve outcomes.

What Is a Fungal Nail Infection?

A fungal nail infection, also known as onychomycosis, occurs when fungi infect the nail or the skin beneath the nail.

Dermatophytes are the most common cause, although yeasts and moulds can also be responsible.

Fungal nail infections usually develop gradually and may affect one nail initially before spreading to other nails if left untreated.

What Does a Fungal Nail Infection Look Like?

Common signs include:

Yellow, white or brown discolouration Thickened nails Brittle or crumbly nails Nails becoming misshapen Separation of the nail from the nail bed Build-up of debris beneath the nail Occasionally an unpleasant odour

Although fungal infections can affect fingernails, they are much more common in toenails.

What Causes Fungal Nail Infections?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing a fungal nail infection, including:

Warm, moist environments Tinea (athlete's foot) Nail injuries Poor circulation Diabetes Increasing age Wearing tight or non-breathable footwear Walking barefoot in communal areas such as pools and change rooms

How Can You Help Prevent Fungal Nail Infections?

Good foot hygiene is one of the best ways to reduce your risk.

Some simple steps include:

Wash your feet daily. Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. Wear clean socks each day. Choose breathable footwear where possible. Alternate your shoes to allow them to dry completely. Keep toenails trimmed straight across. Avoid sharing nail clippers or files. Wear thongs or sandals in public showers and swimming pool change rooms. Treat athlete's foot promptly if it develops.

Treating Fungal Nail Infections

Fungal nail infections often take time to improve because healthy nails grow slowly.

Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may include:

Topical antifungal products Professional nail care Oral antifungal medication prescribed by your doctor Advice from a podiatrist regarding nail management

It is important to continue treatment as directed, even if the nail begins to look better, as stopping treatment too early may increase the chance of recurrence.

Caring for Shoes and Socks

Good shoe hygiene may help reduce the risk of reinfection.

Consider:

Washing socks after each wear. Allowing shoes to dry thoroughly between uses. Alternating footwear where possible. Replacing heavily worn footwear if appropriate. Treating athlete's foot promptly if present.

Our Recommended Fungal Nail Products

At The Foot Care Shop we stock a carefully selected range of podiatrist-approved products designed to support healthy nails.

Spirularin NS Nail Serum

Spirularin NS Nail Serum is a German-made nail care serum formulated to help care for nails affected by fungal infections.

Features include:

Easy twice-daily application Helps protect and care for damaged nails Suitable for ongoing nail care Suitable for children over 3 years, during pregnancy and for people with diabetes according to the manufacturer

Walker's Fungal Nail Solution

Walker's Fungal Nail Solution is an Australian-made nail treatment formulated to improve the appearance of damaged nails.

Features include:

Simple once-daily application Convenient dropper bottle Helps care for discoloured and thickened nails Cruelty free

FunghiClear Nail Spray

FunghiClear contains Manuka oil and is designed for the care of fungal nails.

Features include:

Easy spray application Contains Manuka oil Suitable for use on affected nails Twice-daily application

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

Arrange an assessment if:

The nail becomes painful. The infection is spreading. Several nails are affected. The nail becomes loose. You have diabetes or poor circulation. You are unsure whether the nail changes are caused by a fungal infection.

A podiatrist can assess the nail, recommend the most appropriate treatment and discuss whether additional investigations or referral are required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can fungal nail infections go away on their own?

Fungal nail infections rarely resolve without treatment and may gradually worsen over time.

How long does treatment take?

Toenails grow slowly, so noticeable improvement often takes several months. Even after the infection has been treated, the damaged nail must grow out before it returns to a more normal appearance.

Can I wear nail polish if I have a fungal nail infection?

Traditional nail polish may make it more difficult to monitor changes in the nail. If you wish to wear nail polish, speak with your podiatrist about the most appropriate option during treatment.

Is fungal nail infection contagious?

Yes. The fungi that cause nail infections can spread to other nails, other people and communal surfaces. Good foot hygiene and avoiding sharing nail care equipment can help reduce the risk.

Can athlete's foot spread to the nails?

Yes. Untreated athlete's foot is one of the most common sources of fungal nail infections, which is why prompt treatment is recommended.

Conclusion

Fungal nail infections are common but can often be successfully managed with early treatment and good foot care. Keeping your feet clean and dry, practising good footwear hygiene and using appropriate treatment products can all help improve nail health and reduce the chance of recurrence.

If you're unsure whether your nail changes are caused by a fungal infection or you're not seeing improvement with treatment, it's worth arranging an assessment with your podiatrist.