{"id":92,"date":"2023-08-02T12:08:00","date_gmt":"2023-08-02T12:08:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.highettpodiatry.com.au\/?page_id=92"},"modified":"2024-04-11T10:06:54","modified_gmt":"2024-04-11T00:06:54","slug":"fungaltoenails","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.highettpodiatry.com.au\/fungaltoenails\/","title":{"rendered":"FUNGAL TOENAIL"},"content":{"rendered":"

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.21.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.21.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb title=”Fungal Toenail Treatment” content_max_width=”100%” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h1″ text_orientation=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”What is Fungal Nail?” content_max_width=”100%” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Our toenails are subject to the constant presence of bacteria and fungi (picture the environment inside a shoe).<\/p>\n

Fungal toenails, also known as onychomycosis is one of the most common nail conditions that we see as podiatrists. It is a slow growing fungus that is commonly the same fungus that causes tinea.<\/p>\n

Fungal infections usually occur underneath the nail and begin at the end of the nail (where it gets trimmed) and are caused by a spreading of a fungus under the nail plate and into the nail bed. Fungi grow in the warm, moist environment inside socks and shoes. Fungal nail infection can also appear as a white, powdery discoloration on top of the nail.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.highettpodiatry.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/HP2023-96_web.jpg” alt=”Fungal Toenail Treatment – Highett podiatry” title_text=”Fungal Toenail Treatment – Highett podiatry” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_blurb title=”Symptoms” content_max_width=”100%” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

The most common symptoms of fungal toenails infections include:<\/p>\n

Thickened nails<\/strong><\/p>\n

The affected nail may become thicker than usual, making it difficult to trim.<\/p>\n

Discoloured nails<\/strong><\/p>\n

The nail may become yellow, brown, or white, and may have spots or streaks.<\/p>\n

Brittleness<\/strong><\/p>\n

The nail may become brittle, crumbly, or ragged, making it easier to break.<\/p>\n

Distorted nail shape<\/strong><\/p>\n

The nail may become distorted, and its shape may change, such as curving or bending.<\/p>\n

Foul odour<\/strong><\/p>\n

The infected nail may emit an unpleasant odour.<\/p>\n

Separation from the nail bed<\/strong><\/p>\n

In severe cases, the infected nail may separate from the nail bed, causing pain and discomfort.<\/p>\n

Pain and discomfort<\/strong><\/p>\n

The affected nail may become painful or uncomfortable, especially when walking or wearing shoes.<\/p>\n

It’s important to note that not all nail changes are due to fungal infections, and other conditions such as psoriasis or injury can cause similar symptoms. If you suspect you have a fungal nail infection, it’s best to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Causes” content_max_width=”100%” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Toenail fungus is often picked up in public gyms, showers, and swimming pools as fungal organisms thrive in these warm, damp environments where they can infect the toenails through small cuts in the skin around the nails or through the opening between the nail and nail bed.<\/p>\n

Factors that can lead to developing Fungal Nails include:<\/p>\n

Trauma, allowing entry into the nail or nail bed<\/strong><\/p>\n

Trauma to the nail or nail bed can create small openings that allow fungi to enter and infect the nail. For example, a nail injury such as a cut or puncture wound can provide a pathway for fungi to enter the nail. Similarly, frequent use of artificial nails or other nail products can cause trauma to the nail and increase the risk of fungal infection.<\/p>\n

Abnormal pH level of the skin<\/strong><\/p>\n

The normal pH of the skin is slightly acidic, which helps to protect against fungal and bacterial infections. However, certain factors such as excessive sweating, frequent exposure to water, and the use of alkaline soaps can disrupt the skin’s pH balance, making it more susceptible to fungal infections. Additionally, skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can also affect the skin’s pH and increase the risk of fungal infections.<\/p>\n

Not drying off feet thoroughly after exercise or bathing<\/strong><\/p>\n

Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, and failing to dry the feet properly after exercise or bathing can create an ideal environment for fungal growth. This is particularly true in the areas between the toes, where moisture can accumulate and create a breeding ground for fungi.<\/p>\n

Wearing tight enclosed shoes that don’t allow feet to breathe<\/strong><\/p>\n

Wearing tight, enclosed shoes can create a warm, damp environment that promotes fungal growth. This is especially true if the shoes do not allow for adequate ventilation, trapping moisture and sweat in the shoes and on the feet.<\/p>\n

Individuals with compromised immune systems<\/strong><\/p>\n

People with compromised immune systems, such as diabetics and the elderly, are more susceptible to fungal infections due to reduced immune function. In addition, poor circulation and nerve damage associated with diabetes can make it harder for the body to fight off infections and increase the risk of fungal nail infections.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ module_class=”custom_row dflex” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”second-on-mobile” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb title=”Treatment Options for Fungal Nails” content_max_width=”100%” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

It is recommended you see your podiatrist, if you suspect an infection before the toenail fungus spreads.<\/p>\n

Treatments include:<\/p>\n

Prescribed oral antifungals<\/strong><\/p>\n

Oral antifungal medications are often prescribed by our podiatrists to treat fungal nail infections. These medications work by killing the fungi causing the infection. They are usually taken for several weeks or months and may be more effective than topical antifungal medications.<\/p>\n

Topical antifungals<\/strong><\/p>\n

Topical antifungal medications are applied directly to the infected nail and surrounding skin. These medications work by stopping the growth of the fungi causing the infection. While they are generally less effective than oral antifungal medications, they can be a good option for mild to moderate infections.<\/p>\n

Debridement\/nail removal<\/strong><\/p>\n

In some cases, the infected part of the nail may need to be removed to allow for effective treatment of the underlying infection. This can be done through debridement, which involves removing the affected nail tissue, or through partial or complete nail removal.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”first-on-mobile” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.highettpodiatry.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/img-chilblains.webp” alt=”Chilblains – Highett Podiatry” title_text=”Chilblains – Highett Podiatry” _builder_version=”4.22.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.highettpodiatry.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/HP2023-87_web.jpg” title_text=”HP2023-87_web” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.21.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.21.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_blurb content_max_width=”100%” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Podiatrist tools<\/strong><\/p>\n

Podiatrists have tools to reduce the thickness of the fungal nail so that topical medication can be more easily absorbed, thus providing more comfort to the patient this will also allow for better penetration of topical antifungal medications. This can be particularly helpful for patients with thick or difficult-to-treat fungal nail infections.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Complications” content_max_width=”100%” _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

If left untreated, fungal nail infections can cause several complications, including:<\/p>\n