We use a new, quick, in-clinic test to accurately determine the presence of a fungal nail condition. From diagnosis, we will develop a treatment plan that is clinically appropriate, has the best results and is cost effective. If the test is negative, we work with your GP to direct other pathology tests to determine the cause of your nail condition. Once diagnosed, we develop a treatment and management plan with you.
What are the symptoms of fungal nails?
- Discoloration – Where there is a fungal infection your toenails could appear to be yellow, white, or brown. The nail will often have a mottled appearance.
- Nail structure – The fungus may cause damage to the nail to become thickened and difficult to cut. In later stages the nail may start splitting, flaking, or crumbling. The nail may become separated from the nail bed.
- Ingrown Toenail – An ingrown toenail may form due to the change in shape and structure of the fungal nail.
- Odour – The feet can get quite smelly.
What causes fungal nails infections?
- Often fungus will grow in a toenail that has previously been damaged.
- Dermatophytes are fungal organisms and grown in the damaged nail. They are the most common cause of fungal nail infections.
- Fungal conditions can be spread through contact form someone with athletes foot or ringworm and love sweaty environments.
- Prolonged use of enclosed footwear, nail polish and sweaty environments
What treatments can be used for fungal nails?
A combination of treatments is often required, particularly if you have experienced fungal nails for a long period of time.
- The podiatrist will cut away or use an electric burr to reduce the amount of toenail affected by the infection.
- A topical antifungal is prescribed to be painted directly onto the nail. This works well for early or new infections.
- When there is an extensive or long-term infection, oral antifungals are prescribed in conjunction with your doctor.
- Laser and light therapy can also be used.
Your podiatrist will discuss the best options with you. They will provide advice for home management of the infection along with strategies to prevent reinfection.
Can fungal nails cause other problems?
Fungal nails love a sweaty environment and can spread to the surrounding skin on the foot and lead to “athletes’ foot” or to the genital area and “jock itch” which can affect both men and women.
If you have an underlying heath condition such as diabetes or a suppressed immune system a simple fungal toenail infection can lead to more severe conditions such as cellulitis.
Prevention
- Keep your hands and feet dry.
- Changes sock regularly.
- Alternate shoes to allow the shoe to dry out.
- Spend time barefoot at home.
- Keep fingernails and toenails short and clean.
- Wear footwear such as thongs in shared areas such as public showers or swimming pools
- Don’t share nail clippers with other people.
- Avoid any Nail Bar where all instruments are not sterilised between customers.
Remember, early treatment will get the best outcome.
Local Melbourne suburbs we service
With a priority on keeping people healthy, Melbourne Foot Clinic provides a wide range of professional services for people across Melbourne’s East. Our patients travel from all over Victoria to see us at our foot clinic in Mont Albert, with most coming from the following locations:
Mont Albert Podiatrist
Mont Albert Podiatrist Near Box Hill
We use cutting edge technology and offer excellent services to many residents of Box Hill.
Mont Albert Podiatrist Near Surrey Hills
Our podiatrists are experts in providing biomechanics, orthotics, and foot pain for patients from Surrey Hills.
Mont Albert Podiatrist Near Camberwell
Our podiatrists are specialists in treating clients’ problems across Camberwell and Melbourne’s East.
Mont Albert Podiatrist Near Balwyn
Reputable podiatrists servicing the residents of Balwyn with outstanding results for years.
Ready to meet our amazing team of podiatrists?
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