Fungal Nail Infection

Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments and can spread quickly if left untreated.
You may pick up a fungal nail infection through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or by exposure to damp conditions.

Common sources of infection include:

• Wearing damp or poorly ventilated shoes
• Using shared or unclean showers
• Walking barefoot in swimming pools, gyms, or spas
• Public changing rooms or restrooms
• Poor foot hygiene
• Wearing wet socks for extended periods
• Spread from an existing athlete’s foot infection
  
  

Maintaining good foot hygiene and keeping your feet dry can help reduce your risk. If you do develop a fungal nail infection, early treatment with effective antifungal medication can help stop the infection from spreading.

Fungal nail infections often begin at the tip of the nail and gradually progress down the sides, eventually reaching the base of the nail known as the nail matrix.

As the infection develops, the nail may become thickened, discoloured (yellow or brown), and distorted in shape. The discolouration typically moves further down the nail as the fungus spreads.

Infected nails often become weakened, making them more likely to split, crumble, or break.

If the fungal infection spreads from the nail to the surrounding skin, it can lead to a secondary skin infection, increasing the risk of it spreading to other nails or areas of the body.

Fungal nail infections can be treated in various ways, depending on the severity and location of the infection. If the infection has reached the nail matrix (the base of the nail where growth begins), treatment may take longer and may require medical advice from a GP or specialist.

Antifungal Nail Lacquer

Topical antifungal nail lacquers are a common first-line treatment for mild to moderate fungal nail infections. These are applied directly to the affected nails, often over a period of 6 to 12 months.

Amorolfine (Loceryl)

• Applied once or twice weekly.
• Recommended to file down thickened nail surfaces before application.
• Side effects are rare but may include brittle nails or discolouration.
   

Oral Antifungal Tablets

For more advanced infections, especially those affecting the base of the nail, oral antifungal tablets may be more effective. These are usually prescribed for 6 weeks to 12 months, depending on the infection’s severity.

• Oral treatments are available only by prescription.
• Possible side effects include nausea, indigestion, diarrhoea, headaches, rash, or weight loss.
• Always consult your GP before starting oral antifungal medication.

Laser Treatment

Laser therapy is a newer method for treating fungal nail infections. It works by using heat pulses to penetrate the nail and destroy the fungal infection at the nail bed.

• Multiple sessions may be required for best results.
• This option is not currently available on the NHS and can be costly.
• Speak to your doctor to determine if laser treatment is appropriate for you.

Surgical Nail Removal

In cases of severe or persistent infections, a doctor or podiatrist may recommend removing the infected nail under local anaesthetic.

• This removes most or all of the fungal infection.
• A new, healthy nail will typically grow back within 6 to 12 months.

Preventing Fungal Nail Infections

To reduce the risk of recurrence, follow these prevention tips:

• Maintain good foot hygiene – wash and dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Wear properly fitted shoes – ensure your feet can breathe and avoid excess moisture.
• Trim nails regularly using clean clippers to reduce the chance of fungal build-up.
• Avoid walking barefoot in public places like swimming pools, gyms, or changing rooms.
• Don’t share socks, shoes, or towels – fungal spores can be easily transferred.
• Dispose of or treat contaminated socks and shoes using antifungal powders or sprays.
• Change damp socks promptly – moisture encourages fungal growth.