An Overview of the Signs and Prevention of Fungal Toenail

The fungi and yeast love warm, moist environments - so places like public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools are prime real estate for them! The fungi release little spores that can wedge into tiny openings along the side of your toenail. Openings beside the nail allow them to get inside the nail bed and slowly spread.

As the fungus grows, infected nails turn yellow, brown or greenish. They thicken, crumble and develop debris underneath.

Signs That You Might Have Fungal Infection

Fungal toenail signs vary but often include:

●     Discolored, yellowed nails

●     Thickening or distortion of the nail 

●     White/yellow streaks in the nail bed 

●     Crumbling, ragged edges

●     Nails separating from the toes

●     Foul-smelling nail debris

●     Toenail breaks easily

These changes typically start at the nail edges before moving across the nail.

Who is At Risk?

While anyone can get fungal nails, you may be at a greater risk if you:

●     Frequently go barefoot in public areas

●     Have a prior toenail injury or trauma 

●     Suffer from athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)

●     Have a compromised immune system

●     Have diabetes, peripheral vascular disease or reduced circulation

●     Smoke tobacco products

●     Perspire heavily in shoes during sports 

Wearing tight hosiery and socks traps moisture. Not properly drying between toes after swimming or bathing also allows fungi to thrive.

You may want to cure fungal toenails at home but, see a Podiatrist if home care doesn't help.

Preventing the Return of Fungal Nails

The toenail fungus comeback rate is about 5-12% after successful fungal toenail treatment in London. Avoid recurring infections with these prevention tips:

●     Wear shower shoes in public facilities

●     Disinfect home pedicure tools

●     Use antifungal powder on shoes

●     Wear moisture-wicking socks

●     Apply antifungal spray after bathing

●     Get pedicures at licensed salons

●     Don’t share nail files or clippers

●     Replace shoes with heavy use 

Toenail fungus won’t clear without professional treatments.

Don’t hesitate to book a clinic appointment with one of our registered podiatrists if you:

●     Suspect you have a fungal toenail infection

●     Have pain, swelling or other worrisome symptoms

●     Haven’t had improvement using antifungals after 3 months

Our professionals will diagnose the type of fungus infecting your nails and discuss personalised fungal toenail treatment in London meant for your health history and needs.