What is a nail fungus?

Nail fungus or onychomycosis is a common nail condition caused by a fungal infection. It results in a fungal toenail that is often yellow or white, thickened, flaky or brittle. It is caused by a fungus either penetrating through the nail plate itself or infecting the skin underneath the nail plate (nail bed).

Do you suffer from fungal toenails?

Signs & symptoms of nail fungus

The following signs or symptoms may indicate a fungal toenail infection:

  • White or yellow nail discolouration
  • Thickening of the toenail with discolouration
  • Brittle toenail
  • Crumbling or flaking of the nail plate
  • Nail that lifts off from the nail bed
  • Odour coming from the infected nail
Nail fungus treatment Camberwell

Causes of nail fungus

Nail fungus is caused by a fungal infection that enters the nail complex, either by penetrating through the nail plate itself or infecting the skin underneath the nail plate (nail bed).

Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments so sweaty feet and poor foot hygiene are factors that can make you more prone to tinea and fungal toenail infection.

Trauma is often a common overlooked factor involved in fungal toenail infections as it can cause lifting of the nail plate from the bed, allowing easy entry for fungal spores.

Nail fungus diagnosis

Nail fungus or onychomycosis is usually easily diagnosed clinically by our Melbourne podiatrists, who are experts in identifying nail conditions of the foot without the need for further tests. If our podiatrists are unsure of the presence of nail fungus then they may elect to take a nail sample and sent it to pathology to confirm diagnosis.

Podiatry treatment for fungal toenails

Our Melbourne podiatrists are experts in diagnosis of fungal toenails and can advise you on how to best treat nail fungus. Podiatry treatment can involve recommendation of topical anti-fungal solutions, oral medication or PACT photodynamic nail fungus treatment.

The keys to preventing fungal toenail infections are good foot hygiene and good footwear to help prevent nail trauma and damage. Orthotics can also help prevent nail damage from biomechanical factors.

For more information on treatment please visit our services page on nail fungus treatment.

NB. There are many other nail conditions that can mimic nail fungus so thorough consultation and accurate diagnosis with one of our podiatrists is vital before any self treatment.

Call us Melbourne Podiatrist

Has a podiatrist checked your feet for nail fungus?

At our Melbourne foot clinic our podiatrists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. This includes nail fungus diagnosis and treatment.

So if you think you are suffering from fungal toenails book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today!