Fungal nails
Although unappealing and embarrassing, fungal infections in the foot skin and toe nails are common. The correct term for the fungi in toe nails is Onychomycosis Fungal infections on the foot skin are coined as Tinea or Athlete’s Foot. Most of the time, fungal infection on the skin leads to infection on the nails, and vice versa.
Fungal nails are discolored – it may turn yellow, white, or black. Occasionally, the nail rises and separates from the nail bed of the toe. Infected nails may also thicken and become deformed. It may eventually develop into ingrown toenails, which are very painful.
It is also crucial for people with diabetes to have their toenails and skin checked. A patient with diabetes is at a high risk of getting fungal infections, which compromise the quality nails and skin. This can lead to infections and ulcerations if not managed.
Signs of fungal infection on the nail includes:
Symptoms of Tinea or Athlete’s Foot include:
Podiatrists can clinically diagnose a toenail and skin fungal infection. If we do suspect your toenail to be infected, we will work with you to formulate a treatment plan specific to you.
This may involve;
- topical anti-fungal tincture
- footwear assessment and advice
- sending nail clippings for diagnosis and prescription of oral anti-fungals
- treatment of the nail to reduce thickness and manage ingrowing nails
- or Laser therapy for fungal nails.