September 6, 2024 What is it?
Onychomycosis (Nail fungus) is one of the most common nail infections seen globally, accounting for up to 90% of all toenail infections. Nail fungus is most commonly caused by fungal organisms including Dermatophytes, non-dermatophyte moulds and yeasts, which affect your toenails causing; brittleness, nail plate damage, thickened nails, discolouration (including nail streaking) and odour.
How did I contract it?
Nail Fungus is generally spread through direct contact with fungal spores. Fungal spores enter through damaged or lifted nail plates and begin to proliferate and colonise, often spreading to other nails. Fungal spores can be spread through a variety of ways e.g. shared spaces such as public pools, poor foot hygiene (not changing socks) and excessive sweating of the feet. Fungal nails are also commonly seen in co-occurrence with tinea pedis (a fungal infection of the skin), its commonly spread to the nails through itching of the infected area using the toenail.
What can I do to treat it?
Pharmacotherapy:
- The use of a topical antifungal nail ointment or spray can be used in conjunction with good foot hygiene practices (changing socks twice daily and use of an antifungal detergent)
- Oral medication can be used for more severe cases of infection or in the case of persistent nail fungus.
- Combination of topical and oral therapy (gold standard)
- Note: a liver function test is needed to proceed with oral treatment of nail fungus
- Note: a high level of compliance is needed for maximum results. Topical medication should be used until 2 weeks after symptoms have stopped.
Environmental Factors:
- Changing socks twice daily
- Use of an antifungal detergent
- high compliance with oral and topical therapy
- bleaching shower floors
- getting carpets cleaned
- cleaning shoes (glen 20 + antifungal wash)
See your podiatrist!
While fungal nails can be fairly non urgent, it can mimic other more serious conditions such as psoriasis, changes in nail colour due to medication or other systemic pathology. If you have any concerns with your nails, book a consult with a podiatrist.
