What are Fungal Toenails?

Fungal toenails are widespread fungal infections that affect the toenails.

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What are the signs and symptoms of fungal toenails?

Some symptoms are:

• The toenails change colour (to yellow, white, or brown)

• You can lift the toenail from its nail bed

• Toenail becomes thickened

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What causes Fungal Toenails?

The fungal infection of toenails are caused by a mold called a dermatophyte. It needs a protein called keratin to grow and favours darkness and moisture.

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Who are more prone to fungal toenails?

People who have athlete's feet (fungal infection of the skin of feet), diabetes, hyperhidrosis (sweaty feet), psoriasis, or immunocompromised patients are more prone to fungal toenails.

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How to treat Fungal Toenails?

Fungal toenails can be treated by oral antifungal medication, topical medication, laser therapy, or light therapy (PACT, Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy).

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How to prevent Fungal Toenails?

Fungal toenails can be prevented by avoiding going barefoot in communal areas and to wear flip flops in the shower if you have a family member with foot fungus.

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