Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) are usually painless conditions which are caused by fungal infection contaminating the toenail.
Fungal nail infections are the most common cause of discoloured nails and if left untreated can become thickened and discoloured in appearance. The nail can sometimes become brittle, with pieces of nail breaking off or even coming away from the toe completely.
Causes of Fungal Nail Infections:
The various fungi that cause nail infections can be found all around us, on floors, towels and in clothing. They are highly contagious and can easily be passed from person to person by contact. The nail plate and nail bed can easily become infected if it is damaged or broken. If care is not taken the fungus can spread to the skin causing itching, peeling or burning of the skin especially between the toes – Athlete’s Foot
Treatment:
Many of the treatments available are in the form of a nail lacquer or paint that is applied to the surface of the nail. In some cases the nail bed can become infected and your GP may wish to prescribe a course of oral antifungal tablets which can be used in combination with a nail lacquer.
It can take approximately 9 to 12 months for a toenail to grow fully and you are advised to continue applying the nail surface treatments until all traces of the fungal nail infection have grown out.