Expert Treatment for Fungal Nail Infection
Fungal Nail Infection Treatment at Leading Health Podiatry
Fungal nail infection is a common issue that can cause discomfort and unsightly nails. At Leading Health Podiatry, we offer expert diagnosis and treatment options to help you manage and overcome fungal nail infections effectively.
What Is Fungal Nail Infection?
Fungal nail infections, medically known as onychomycosis, occur when fungi invade the nail through small cracks or breaks in the nail or skin. This infection can cause the nail to discolor, thicken, or become brittle. It can affect one or more nails and may lead to pain and discomfort if left untreated.
Symptoms of Fungal Nail Infection
Signs that you may have a fungal nail infection include:
- Yellow, white, or brown discoloration of the nail
- Thickened or distorted nails
- Brittle, crumbly, or fragile nails
- Foul odor coming from the affected nail
- Pain or discomfort around the nail
Causes of Fungal Nail Infection
Fungal nail infections are typically caused by dermatophytes, yeast, or molds. These infections can occur due to:
- Exposure to warm, moist environments (such as public showers or swimming pools)
- Poor circulation or conditions like diabetes
- Nail trauma or injury
- Wearing tight or wet shoes
- A weakened immune system
How We Diagnose Fungal Nail Infections
At Leading Health Podiatry, we’re proud to be one of the few podiatry clinics offering the Diafactory Testing Kit in-office. This quick and convenient test provides immediate results, taking just 10 minutes to confirm the presence of a fungal infection. It allows us to accurately diagnose the issue and begin treatment without delay.
If further testing is required, we can send a nail clipping sample to a pathology lab for more in-depth analysis. While this process offers an accurate diagnosis, please note that it may take anywhere from a few days to weeks for the results to return.
How We Treat Fungal Nail Infections
At Leading Health Podiatry, we offer a range of treatments for fungal nail infections, aimed at relieving symptoms and promoting healing.
1. Topical Antifungal Treatments
For mild cases of fungal nail infection, we may recommend topical antifungal treatments. These medications are applied directly to the affected nail to treat the infection locally.
2. Nail Debridement
In some cases, we may perform nail debridement, which involves carefully trimming and removing the affected part of the nail. This helps reduce the infection’s severity and allows for better penetration of topical treatments.
3. Referral for Oral Antifungal Medications
For more severe infections, a GP may prescribe oral antifungal medications. While these can be effective, they may have side effects, so they are typically reserved for more serious cases. Our podiatrists will guide you on the best course of action and work with your GP to ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.
4. Total Nail Avulsion (TNA) – In-Office Surgical Removal of the Entire Toenail
A Total Nail Avulsion (TNA) is a minor in-office surgical procedure similar to ingrown toenail surgery but involves the removal of the entire toenail. It is performed in severe cases where the nail is extensively damaged, infected, or causing persistent pain that does not respond to conservative treatments.
Why Choose Leading Health Podiatry?
Our experienced team at Leading Health Podiatry is dedicated to providing effective treatments for fungal nail infections. We take the time to assess your condition thoroughly and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve healthier nails.
Book an Appointment Today!
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a fungal nail infection, don’t wait! Book an appointment with one of our expert podiatrists at Leading Health Podiatry and get the care you need to treat the infection and restore your nail health.