Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, are common infections that affect millions of people worldwide. It occurs from the overgrowth of fungi on, under, or in the nail and can leave you with brittle, discolored nails. Some of the most common signs that indicate you have a fungal nail infection include an unpleasant smell coming from the infected nail or a distorted nail that’s crumbly or ragged. In case you live in or around Mandurah and have a fungal nail infection, visit Peel Podiatry Clinic. Our team will provide you with the best fungal nail treatment in Mandurah to help you get back clean and healthy-looking nails.
You are more likely to get an infection if you have hot, sweaty feet or wear trainers for a long time. In this blog, we will discuss some of the most important points about fungal nail infections.
What Is a Fungal Nail Infection?
A fungal nail infection is a common condition that’s caused by a type of fungus called dermatophytes and can leave you with discoloured, brittle nails. It usually infects the nails on the toes and can be both uncomfortable and unsightly.
They shouldn’t be ignored, as the infections can also lead to more serious complications if left untreated. If you live in Mandurah or the surrounding areas and have a fungal nail infection, you can visit Peel Podiatry Clinic to get rid of it. Our team provides the best fungal nail treatment in Mandurah.
What Are the Symptoms of Fungal Nail Infections?
Some of the most common symptoms of fungal nail infections include:
- Thickening of the nail with a foul odour
- The nail may also become brittle
- It may start to separate from the nail bed
- You’ll notice a white or yellow spot under your nail
What Are the Treatment Options?
According to our professional podiatrists in Mandurah, the most effective treatments for fungal nail infections include:
- Oral antifungal medications: These medications need to be taken for several weeks or months to kill fungus.
- Topical antifungal medications: They are applied directly to the nail.
- Lunula Laser Therapy: The treatment uses low-level laser therapy to kill the toenail fungus, without causing any discomfort or pain to the patient.
What Are the Risk Factors for Fungal Nail Infections?
There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing a fungal nail infection. These include:
- Older age
- Having a minor skin or nail injury
- Wearing shoes that make your feet sweat heavily
- Walking barefoot in damp public areas
- Having diabetes or a weakened immune system
What Are the Best Ways to Prevent Fungal Nail Infections?
You can take several steps to prevent fungal nail infections, including:
Wear Sweat-Absorbing Socks: Always wear moisture-wicking socks as they help prevent fungi from growing.
Choose Breathable Footwear: It is recommended to wear shoes made of breathable fabrics such as leather as they facilitate adequate air circulation. This not only ensures that your footwear fits properly without being too snug or too loose around your toes but also helps to keep your feet dry and avoid overheating.
Clip Your Toenails Properly: Trimming your toenails regularly and maintaining a length that’s shorter than the tips of your toes is important to prevent a fungal nail infection. However, while cutting your nails, avoid trimming your cuticles, as this can create small openings in the skin that allow bacteria to enter.
Avoid Going Barefoot in Public Areas: Whenever you are going to public places like locker rooms, pools, or gyms, avoid going barefoot. Remember, these high-risk areas are loaded with fungi waiting to get between your toenail and the toenail bed.
The Bottom Line
Fungal nail infections can be extremely painful and affect your day-to-day activities. Should you be looking for a clinic that provides the best fungal nail treatment in Mandurah, get in touch with our team at Peel Podiatry Clinic. We will guide you through a customized treatment plan and recovery period. Should you want to know more on the subject, call (08) 9586 3046.