While there are millions of species, only around 300 can cause infections with the skin or nails – so usually they don’t cause problems unless they get into the skin through a cut or lesion, or they begin to multiply more quickly than normal.
Fungal nail infections, which are also called Onychomycosis or tinea unguium, affect the fingernails or, most commonly, the toenails. Infected nails can show discolouration; be brittle and prone to breakage, or can be thicker than usual.
While fungal skin conditions can usually be managed with over-the-counter treatment available at the chemist, it’s often necessary to treat fungal nail infections with prescription medications, and in severe cases, some or all of an affected nail may need to be removed.
Fungi are known to thrive in warm, damp conditions, and because of that, sweaty or moist areas of the skin that aren’t exposed to much airflow tend to be the most common sites of fungal infections – this is why fungal nail infections commonly present in the toenails, because our feet are frequently in shoes and socks.
It’s rarer to have fungal nail infections in the fingernails, and sometimes this can be related to occupational conditions – for example, hairdressers or farmers who often have wet or damp hands. It’s also worth noting that a change in appearance of the fingernails may be a symptom of an underlying condition, so it’s valuable to visit a GP before trying over-the-counter medications to treat a suspected fungal infection in the fingernails.
Fungal Nail Infection
While fungal skin conditions can usually be managed with over-the-counter treatment available at the chemist, it’s often necessary to treat fungal nail infections with prescription medications, and in severe cases, some or all of an affected nail may need to be removed.
Symptoms of Fungal Nail Infection
Discolouration
Thickening and distortion
Pain or discomfort
Brittleness
Causes of Fungal Nail Infections
Typical symptoms of athlete’s foot include itching, burning or stinging sensations either between the toes, or on the soles of the feet; red, scaly, dry, peeling or flaky skin, which may develop cracks or blisters; and in some cases, infection can spread to other areas of the body – like the nails.
People who visit nail salons may be more at risk of developing fungal nail infections as a result of unsterilised, or improperly sterilised equipment.
There are several factors that can increase the risk of fungal nail infections, such as;
- Living in a damp, or warm climate
- Heavy sweating
- Not keeping the feet clean and dry
- Sharing clothing, shoes, towels, bedding or nail equipment, like clippers
- Wearing footwear that it tight, and isn’t breathable
- Walking barefoot in places where fungal infections can easily be spread, such as swimming pools, communal showers, and locker rooms
- Having a weakened immune system
- Having certain health conditions, like psoriasis, diabetes, or peripheral arterial disease.
While most fungal nail infections are not serious, and some may respond to over-the-counter treatments, they often don’t, and their appearance – especially in the fingernails – can be a symptom of another more serious condition, so it may be wise to seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
If a fungal nail infection has been confirmed, it’s important to reduce the risk of spreading it – either in yourself, or to other people.
Some ways to reduce risks include;
- Ensuring the hands and feet are kept clean and dry
- Wearing footwear made of natural, breathable materials, and clean socks made of natural fibres (like cotton)
- Replacing old footwear that may be contaminated
- Keeping nails short and not sharing clippers or scissors
- Not sharing towels, socks or shoes with others
- Making sure towels are washed regularly on a ‘sanitise’ setting
- Getting footwear to wear in places where fungal infections can easily be spread, such as public pools, showers, and locker rooms
Treatment for Fungal Nail Infection at Derma
Your appointment will begin with a skin check and medical history, which will allow the dermatologist to diagnose the infection or any skin conditions that may be co-occurring.
Together with the dermatologist, you will discuss the latest and most effective treatments and explain all potential side-effects, enabling you to select the best option for you.
It’s possible that fungal nail infections can be controlled using treatments available from chemists, but depending on your condition, prescription treatment – such as antifungal tablets or antifungal nail paints may be necessary.
Some creams may be prescribed to soften parts of the nails so that the doctor can perform a to remove infected parts of the nail, stopping the infection from spreading.
The dermatologist will let you know whether it is beneficial to continue with any over-the-counter treatments, or if it is advisable to stop.
In very severe fungal nail infections, it may be necessary to remove the nail entirely, which your dermatologist will discuss with you.
Whatever your needs, you can rest assured that Derma will provide the very best care for your skin, with access to the latest research and treatments.
Related Specialists at Derma
Dr Charles Archer
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Charles Archer is a registered specialist with the GMC and his NHS Consultant post is split between The Royal Berkshire Hospitals and Oxford University Hospitals.
Dr Sanju Arianayagam
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Sanju Arianayagam is a Consultant Dermatologist and gained her dermatology experience at Cambridge University Hospitals, Oxford University Hospitals and the Royal Berkshire Hospital.
Dr Rima Clayton
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Rima Clayton is a UK trained Consultant Dermatologist who practises in Reading and Oxford. She is fully trained in both paediatric and adult dermatology.
Dr Inge Kreuser-Genis
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr Kreuser-Genis is a UK trained Consultant Dermatologist who practices in Reading and Oxford. She is fully trained in both paediatric and adult dermatology.
Professor Rubeta Matin
Consultant Dermatologist
Professor Rubeta Matin is a UK trained consultant dermatologist and honorary senior lecturer in Oxford since 2015. She is fully trained and on the GMC specialist register.
Dr John Reed
Consultant Dermatologist
Dr John Reed has been a UK trained consultant dermatologist and senior lecturer in Oxford since 2007