Fungal Toenail Treatment
Fungal toenail infections are a common condition that can cause nails to become discoloured, thickened, brittle, and difficult to manage. Although they are not usually serious, fungal nail infections rarely clear on their own and can gradually worsen if left untreated.
At Sussex Total Foot Care, we provide expert assessment, diagnosis, and personalised treatment plans to help improve the appearance and health of your toenails.
What Is a Fungal Toenail Infection?
A fungal toenail infection, also known as onychomycosis, occurs when fungi invade the nail or the skin beneath it. The infection develops slowly and may affect one or several toenails.
In the early stages, the changes can be subtle, but over time the nail may become increasingly thick, discoloured, and brittle.
What Causes Fungal Toenails?
Fungal nail infections are caused by microscopic fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. The infection may develop after a fungal skin infection, such as athlete’s foot, spreads to the nail.
Factors that increase the risk include:
- Athlete’s foot
- Warm, sweaty feet
- Wearing tight or non-breathable footwear
- Nail injuries or trauma
- Increasing age
- Diabetes
- Poor circulation
- A weakened immune system
- Regular use of communal showers, swimming pools, or changing rooms
Symptoms
A fungal toenail infection may cause:
- Yellow, white, brown, or cloudy discolouration
- Thickened nails
- Brittle or crumbly nails
- Distorted nail shape
- Nails lifting away from the nail bed
- Debris beneath the nail
- Difficulty cutting the nail
- Discomfort when wearing shoes
Some fungal infections cause little or no pain but can continue to spread if left untreated.
How Are Fungal Toenails Diagnosed?
Although fungal nails often have a characteristic appearance, other conditions can look very similar.
Your podiatrist will examine the affected nail and discuss your symptoms. In some cases, we may recommend laboratory testing to confirm whether a fungal infection is present before beginning treatment. This helps ensure the most appropriate treatment is selected.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
Arrange an appointment if:
- Your toenail has become thick, discoloured, or crumbly.
- The nail is painful or difficult to cut.
- The infection appears to be spreading.
- Home treatments have not been successful.
- You have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system.
- You are unsure whether the nail changes are caused by fungus.
Early assessment can help identify the underlying cause and improve treatment outcomes.
Fungal Nail FAQs
Can fungal nails be cured?
Many fungal nail infections can be cleared or greatly improved with the right treatment and time, though results vary and some nails need ongoing management.
Why has my shop bought treatment not worked?
Over the counter products often cannot penetrate a thick nail. Professional reduction of the nail, combined with a suitable treatment, gives a much better chance of success.
Will it spread to my other nails or my family?
It can. We will advise you on footwear, hygiene and simple steps to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
Book an Assessment in Worthing
Arrange your appointment online through our booking system or contact the clinic.