What is a fungal nail infection?
Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) are unsightly and most often caused by ‘dermatophytes’. A type of fungus which affects hair, skin and nails.
Other organisms such as yeasts, mould and candida may also be responsible and toenails are affected more than fingernails.
Microbes often gain access to the nail plate or bed after experiencing trauma to either of these areas.
Some examples of the most common forms of onychomycosis:
How do I know if I have it?
Are you aware of the following:
- Thickened nails
- Yellowed or brown nails
- ‘Crumbly’ nails
- Nail is starting to lift – usually from the edges / end of nail
- Misshapen nails
It is most usually caused by fungal infection and the sooner treatment is started, the easier it is to reverse and eradicate the infection/s.
Who does it affect?
Fungal spores are all around us and anyone can be affected. However, fungus proliferates in warm, moist conditions.
This is why those who spend time training often suffer from the notorious ‘athlete’s foot’. But you don’t have to be an athlete or regular sportsperson to be affected.
Channel 4’s Embarrassing Bodies reveals the story of one brave sufferer who has finally sought help: Graham
Common reasons for these infections developing:
– spread from close proximity to another sufferer
– only wearing one pair of shoes to work or to train. Having at least a couple of pairs of shoes for your regular activities gives them time to air dry between wearing
– wearing synthetic shoes all the time. Only wearing closed-toe, synthetic, shoes creates the ideal environment for fungus to grow. Leather or other breathable materials and open-toed shoes are much more healthy for your feet
– wearing synthetic socks or pantyhose, or hands encased in training gloves (for instance, those who box or fence regularly). These coverings create dark, damp environments with restricted air-flow, in which fungus thrives
– walking unprotected in communal changing rooms, particularly at swimming pools. If you’re in these environments often, it is a good idea to protect your feet, by wearing plastic sandals or flip-flops
The occurrence of these infections increases as we become older and men suffer much more than women. Those with restricted or limited mobility often succumb to fungal nail infections.
You are not alone
It is estimated that over 10% of the population suffers from onychomycosis. That means approximately 6.3 million people in the UK have this problem, right now. And for most, it’s an unsightly secret that slowly gets worse and worse, spreading across toes or fingers and of course, to other family members.
Stop being embarrassed by ugly nails
These infections can be simply, painlessly and effectively, eliminated from your life.
Call us today.