What are Fungal Nails?

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail which often causes thickening and discoloration of the nail plate. Often callus (dead skin) is broken down and builds up beneath the nail plate. Sometimes the nail will even change shape. Of all fungal infections that occur on the body, nail infections are one of the most difficult to prevent and treat.

What causes Fungal Nails?

Onychomycosis is caused by an overgrowth of fungi which have a tendency to thrive and grow in all warm, moist places. The fungus usually commences growth at the end of the nail plate and continues to spread under the nail. Sometimes chalky, white plaques form on the nail surface and as the infection progresses yellowish, brownish discoloration may be seen. Cell damage by the fungus to the base of the nail can cause the nail to thicken and change shape.

How to treat Fungal Nails?

Fungal infections of the nail are treated in two(three) ways:

  • Conservatively
  • Surgically
  • With the use of Laser

Conservative treatment involves:

  • A visit to the podiatrist for cutting and thinning of the nails;
  • An anti-fungal topical medicament is then prescribed and applied. It’s applied very much like nail polish. This treatment will occasionally help to prevent spreading of the infection to nearby nails and helps to cure the infected nail.

Prevention of reinfection is very important. If this is not carried out, treatment will fail.

If skin has been infected then advice on management of the surrounding tinea pedis will be needed. Your podiatrist will advise you on this.
Treat the infection that exists in your shoes with anti-fungal spray. Apply anti-fungal spray once a day for the first week and then after shoes are worn.

Surgical treatment

Surgical treatment of nails infected with fungus (Onychomycosis) involves administering Local Anesthetic and removal of the nails. This can then be combined with the application of a topical medicament as the nail regrows. Alternatively a medication which prevents the nail from regrowing can be applied. Surgical treatment is only considered when all other options have been tried without success.

 

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