What is a Fungal Nail Infection?
Fungal nail infection | medically known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium | is an infection of one or more toenails (or fingernails) caused by dermatophyte fungi, yeasts or moulds. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and invade the nail through small cuts in the surrounding skin or separations between the nail and nail bed.
It is a stubborn condition: over-the-counter treatments have low success rates and treatment must be continued consistently for months. Professional diagnosis and treatment gives significantly better outcomes.
Signs & Symptoms
- Yellow, brown or white discolouration of the nail
- Thickened, brittle or crumbly nail
- Nail lifting away from the nail bed (onycholysis)
- Distorted nail shape
- Foul smell from the affected nail
- Mild pain or discomfort when wearing shoes
- Spread to adjacent nails or skin (athlete's foot)
Risk Factors
- Using communal showers, pools or changing rooms
- Wearing occlusive footwear (sweaty feet)
- Trauma or damage to the nail
- Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) | frequently spreads to nails
- Diabetes, poor circulation or immune suppression
- Older age | nail growth slows, increasing vulnerability
Treatment at Grays Foot Clinic
Our podiatrists will confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity before recommending the most appropriate treatment. Management typically involves:
Nail Debridement
Thinning and reducing the infected nail to allow antifungal agents to penetrate more effectively.
Topical Antifungal Treatment
Prescription-strength antifungal lacquers or creams applied to eradicate the infection.
Hygiene Protocols
Guidance on foot hygiene, footwear sterilisation and preventing reinfection from the environment.
Progress Monitoring
Ongoing assessment to track nail re-growth and confirm clearance of the infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does treatment take?
Because nails grow slowly, full clearance can take 9-12 months for toenails. However, you should see progressive improvement from early in the treatment course.
Will the nail return to normal?
In most cases, once the infection is cleared, a healthy nail will grow back from the base. Nails that have been severely damaged may not fully return to their original appearance.
Is it contagious?
Yes. Fungal nail infections can spread to other nails, skin (as athlete's foot) and to others in the household. Avoid sharing towels, socks or nail equipment.