Fungal Nail Infection

Fungal infection of nails (tinea unguium) is common. The infection causes thickened and unsightly nails which sometimes become painful. Medication often works well to clear the infection but you need to take medication for several weeks.

How do you develop a Fungal Nail Infection?

• Spread from a fungal skin infection. For example, Athletes foot(tinea pedis)is a fungal infection of your toes. This may spread to the toenails if the skin infection is not treated early.
• Fingernail infection may occur after a toenail infection has become established. The fungus may spread to a finger if you scratch your itchy toes and toenail.
• Fingernail infections are also more likely to occur if you wash your hands frequently, or have them in water a lot. For example, if you are a cook or a cleaner. Constant washing may damage the protective skin at the base of the nail. This may allow fungi to enter.
• A nail that has recently been damaged is also more likely to become infected.
• You have an increased risk of developing a fungal nail infection if you have various other conditions - for example:
  • Diabetes
  • Psoriasis
  • Poor circulation.
  • A poor immune system (for example, if you have AIDS or are on Chemotheraphy)
  • A general poor state of health.
• Nail infections are more common in people who live in hot or humid climates.
• Smoking also increases the risk of Fungal Nail Infection.
• In some cases there is no apparent reason. Fungal germs are common and an infection can occur 'out of the blue'