Fungal nail infection: your treatment options explained
We understand fungal nails can be embarrassing, but our friendly team of podiatrists can offer you advice and potential solutions.
What is fungal nail infection?
Fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) affects up to 10% of the population at any one time and accounts for up to a third of all skin infections. It can make your nails thick, yellow, crumbly, and uncomfortable, and cause skin to be dry and itchy. The fungus can be present in both your fingernails and toenails but is particularly common in feet because of the dark, warm, damp environment inside your shoes.
Your nail is usually well protected and impervious to fungus. However, damage to the nail plate can allow the fungus to penetrate between the layers of your nail or between the nail plate and the nail bed underneath. Once established it quickly spreads to the surrounding skin and other nails causing a chronic infection that can be very difficult to eradicate.
How can I treat my fungal nail infection?
There are various treatments for your fungal nail problem and a podiatrist will be able to advise on the best way forward for you.
Topical medications
Lacquers or creams found at pharmacies may be suitable, and if this is the case your podiatrist can recommend which is likely to be best for your condition. However, these are often ineffective especially if the infection lies within your nail plate or between the nail and the nail bed.
Oral medications
These are very effective and if suitable, your podiatrist can refer you to your GP for this treatment, however, the medications can have serious side effects and may not be suitable to be taken with other medications. They are also less effective in the older population if circulation to the feet is reduced.
This is why, at Epsom Footcare, we also aim to offer you alternatives. We have access to up-to-date technologies to improve your fungal nail infection without side effects.
Lunula Cold Laser
Lunula Laser offered at Epsom Footcare, is safe, pain-free, easy and quick to perform, and has no side effects. It works by producing two different wavelengths of light – violet and red – that have separate but complimenting effects for fungal infections. The violet light weakens the cell walls of the fungus but has no effect on your cell membranes and the red light enhances the function of your cells to promote circulation and improve immune function. The fungus then becomes more susceptible to your enhanced immune system.
Nail Fenestration – Clearanail
Clearanail treatment for fungal nails offered at Epsom Footcare, is painless and generally a one-off treatment. Your podiatrist uses specialist equipment to create tiny holes in your nail plate to allow for a topical antifungal spray to have deeper access to the areas of infection without damaging the nail bed underneath. Your podiatrist will use a drill with a sensitive clutch mechanism that senses when to stop, protecting the sensitive nail bed beneath, and ensuring a painless procedure.
How successful are treatments for fungal nail infections?
Nail and skin fungal infections can be extremely difficult to treat and can return even when you diligently follow the recommended protocols. Whilst these treatments can be extremely effective they are not a “silver bullet”. Fungal infections are complex and it is important to adopt other good habits to achieve a positive outcome. Your podiatrist will be able to recommend proper care and hygiene to drive the success of your treatment, and we will do our utmost to ensure you get a successful outcome, but unfortunately, there is no 100% guarantee even with the gold standard oral medication.
To find out what treatment is most suitable for your condition, book in to see one of our podiatrists and start your journey to healthy nails. Alternatively, you can contact our Patient Care Team on 01372 72300 or email enquiries@epsomfootcare.co.uk.
