Expert Advice from Our Podiatrists at Instep of Oakham
Fungal nail infections, known as onychomycosis, are a common but stubborn condition affecting many people. They can cause thickened, discoloured, and brittle nails, often leading to discomfort and embarrassment. At Instep of Oakham, our expert podiatrists specialise in diagnosing and treating fungal nails effectively. In this blog, we explore the causes, treatment options, and how you can prevent reinfection.
What Causes Fungal Nail Infections?
Fungal nail infections occur when fungi (dermatophytes, yeasts, or moulds) invade the nail bed, thriving in warm, moist environments. These infections can develop due to:
🔹 Walking barefoot in communal areas – Swimming pools, gyms, and changing rooms are breeding grounds for fungi.
🔹 Sweaty or damp feet – Poor ventilation in shoes encourages fungal growth.
🔹 Nail trauma – Minor injuries create an entry point for infection.
🔹 Athlete’s foot (Tinea Pedis) – Fungal infections often spread from the skin to the nails.
🔹 Weakened immune system – People with diabetes or circulatory issues are more susceptible.
📌 Key Fact: Studies suggest that fungal nail infections affect up to 8% of the UK population, with incidence increasing with age (Thomas et al., 2010).
Signs & Symptoms of a Fungal Nail Infection
Fungal nail infections develop gradually and can affect one or multiple nails. Common symptoms include:
✅ Discolouration – Yellow, white, or brown patches on the nail.
✅ Thickening & Brittleness – Nails become crumbly, flaky, and harder to trim.
✅ Deformation – The nail may lift from the nail bed, causing discomfort.
✅ Odour & Debris – In severe cases, nails may emit a foul smell and collect debris underneath.
📌 Did you know? Left untreated, fungal infections can spread to other nails or even the skin, leading to conditions like athlete’s foot.
How We Treat Fungal Nails at Instep of Oakham
At Instep of Oakham, we offer advanced treatments to effectively manage and eliminate fungal nail infections.
1. Clinical Diagnosis & Nail Analysis
✅ Our expert podiatrists assess the extent of infection and recommend a tailored treatment plan.
✅ In some cases, we may take nail samples to confirm the fungal infection.
2. Professional Nail Debridement & Reduction
✅ We gently file and thin the infected nail, improving the effectiveness of antifungal treatments.
✅ This also enhances cosmetic appearance and reduces discomfort.
3. Topical Antifungal Treatments
✅ Medicated nail lacquers (Amorolfine, Ciclopirox) can be applied directly to the nail.
✅ These are most effective in mild to moderate infections.
4. Oral Antifungal Medication (For Severe Infections)
✅ Tablets such as Terbinafine or Itraconazole may be prescribed in persistent cases.
✅ These work from the inside out but require monitoring for potential side effects.
5. Specialist Laser Treatment (If Applicable)
✅ Some clinics use laser therapy to destroy fungal spores without damaging the nail.
✅ This method is growing in popularity as an alternative to medication.
Preventing Reinfection: Expert Tips from Our Podiatrists
💡 Keep Feet Dry & Clean – Wash and dry feet thoroughly, especially between toes.
💡 Wear Breathable Footwear – Opt for leather or mesh shoes to reduce moisture buildup.
💡 Use Antifungal Sprays or Powders – Helps prevent fungal regrowth in shoes and socks.
💡 Change Socks Daily – Moisture-wicking socks reduce fungal growth.
💡 Avoid Sharing Nail Tools – Always sanitise nail clippers and files.
💡 Regular Podiatry Check-Ups – Professional care can prevent recurrence and ensure healthy nails.
📌 Did you know? Research shows that 25% of fungal nail infections recur if preventative measures aren’t taken (Gupta et al., 2016).
When to See a Podiatrist at Instep of Oakham
Book an appointment at Instep of Oakham if you notice:
❌ Persistent nail discolouration or thickening
❌ Pain or discomfort while walking
❌ The infection spreading to other nails or skin
❌ No improvement with over-the-counter treatments
Our experienced podiatrists provide comprehensive fungal nail treatment, helping you achieve healthier, clearer nails.
📞 Book an Appointment Today at Instep of Oakham for expert fungal nail treatment and advice!
References
- Thomas, J., Jacobson, G. A., Narkowicz, C. K., Peterson, G. M., Burnet, H., & Sharpe, C. (2010). Onychomycosis: Diagnosis and effective management. The International Journal of Clinical Practice, 64(8), 1101-1106.
- Gupta, A. K., Simpson, F. C. (2016). New developments in the management of onychomycosis and its treatment options. Drug Design, Development and Therapy, 10, 1645–1651.
