Fungal nail

Fungal nail infection - What is it?

Fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) is an unsightly infection of the nail (usually the toe nails) which is in the nail bed itself - underneath the toe-nail. The nail becomes thickened, white, yellowy or even green in appearance. When treated and killed, the dead fungus will eventually grow out and be clipped out with nail cutting. The fungus can also spread from toe to finger nails.

How do I know if I have fungal nail infection?

You may have fungal nail infection if:

• Your nail is thickened
• Your nail is discoloured
• Yellowy, even greeny area on the nail
• If you are already suffering from athlete's Foot - it may have spread to the toenail

What are the symptoms of fungal nail infection?

Often you don't feel any discomfort or pain, but the symptoms are visibly unsightly, as described above. You may have the following symptoms:

• the nail may be soft and crumbly
• the infected nail could detach itself from the skin
• walking may become painful if the nail becomes badly affected

How did I get fungal nail infection?

There are many reasons that you could have contracted fungal nail infection such as:

• From another infected person
• From clothing infected by the fungus
• From places where people walk around barefoot: bathrooms, locker rooms, showers, public swimming pools
• Naturally infected due to poor shoe ventilation or hygiene
• From athlete's foot or another infected nail
• If you live in hot, humid climates you are more at risk from Fungal nail infection
• If you have other health problems such as diabetes, psoriasis or a poor immune system, you are at a higher risk of developing fungal nail infection

How common is fungal nail infection?

Fungal nail infection affects about 3% of the adult population in the UK and is most prevalent in people over 55 and in young sports people and athletes.

How can I treat fungal nail infection?

The first line of defense is oral tablets or using a nail lacquer and both are readily available over the counter at your local pharmacist.

The second line of defense is to use Eradicil in each and every pre-wash until the infection is cleared. Learn more about using Eradicil

How can I prevent getting fungal nail infection?

• Avoid sharing towels, bath mats, items of clothing and bed linen with someone who is already infected
• Cut your nails regularly and keep them short
• Do not share nail scissors or clippers with anyone else
• Keep feet dry and cool and use talcum powder
• Wear properly fitting shoes