Fungal toenail, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition characterized by a fungal infection of the toenails. It can cause the nails to become discoloured, thickened, brittle, and sometimes even painful. In severe cases, the infection can lead to the nail separating from the nail bed.
Fungal toenails occur when dermatophytes (the most common group of fungi causing nail infections), yeasts, or moulds invade the nail. Several factors contribute to the development of this condition:
Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Public showers, swimming pools, and poorly ventilated shoes provide ideal conditions for fungal growth.
Injury to the nail or surrounding skin can give fungi easier access to the nail.
Infrequent washing, inadequate drying of feet, or not changing socks regularly can promote fungal growth.
Individuals with diabetes, circulatory problems, or weakened immune systems are more susceptible to fungal infections.
Older adults are more prone to onychomycosis due to slower nail growth and more frequent exposure to the fungi.
Conditions like psoriasis or other nail traumas may predispose individuals to fungal infections.
Our Podiatrists at Sydney Podiatry typically treat fungal toenails using various approaches:
Prescription-strength antifungal nail lacquers (e.g., ciclopirox, efinaconazole) can be applied directly to the affected nails. However, they may be less effective for severe cases or thickened nails.
Sydney Podiatry may perform procedural nail debridement to remove thickened or damaged nail material, allowing topical treatments to penetrate better.
Sydney Podiatry may offer laser treatment to target and kill the fungi without harming the surrounding tissues.
Sydney Podiatry may advise patients on improving foot hygiene, using antifungal powders in shoes, wearing breathable footwear, and avoiding going barefoot in communal areas.
Continued follow-up to monitor the growth of healthy nail tissue is often essential, as nail regrowth can take months.
If you suspect you have a fungal toenail our podiatrists at Sydney Podiatry can provide an accurate diagnosis and development of an appropriate treatment plan. Although fungal toenails can be persistent and challenging to treat, combining different therapeutic strategies can effectively resolve the infection and restore healthy nails.
