Fungal nail infections most commonly affect the toes; however, it’s not rare for this infection to also affect your fingernails. Bodyvie is one of the few aesthetics clinics to have in-house laser treatment for fungal nail infections.
While a fungal nail infection may not cause much harm, it can often take a long time to clear.
What are fungal nails?
Fungal nails are caused mainly by fungal organisms (AKA fungi). The most common fungi to cause fungal nails is onychomycosis; however, mould and yeast can also be the cause. You’ll often find that a fungal nail infection starts with a yellow or white spot underneath your nail. Then, as the infection sets in, the nail may become discoloured, thick and/or crumble at the edges. It may also spread to other nails on the hand or foot.
The leading causes for concern in the patient are often the unpleasant appearance it gives to your hands or feet or the irritation and discomfort it can cause.
Who is more susceptible to fungal nails?
The elderly are more likely to develop fungal nail infections, as the ageing process affects your entire body, including your nails. However, it is not uncommon for it to affect any age. As your body ages, your nails can become dry and crack, leaving them open to fungi entering the nail bed. The fungi thrive on the inefficiency of blood flow to the nails and the weakened immune system that comes with age.
Those that have a history of athlete’s foot have an increased risk of developing a fungal nail infection, along with those who suffer from excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), who have had an injury to the skin around the nail or to the nail itself, or who often go barefoot in damp communal areas, such as communal showers.
How do you prevent fungal nails?
Your risk of contracting a fungal nail infection is reduced significantly by practising good hygiene and wearing breathable footwear, especially if you have hyperhidrosis on your feet or breakouts of the athlete’s foot.
How do you treat fungal nails?
At Bodyvie, we use an in-house laser treatment to treat fungal nail infections. Our practitioners are highly trained, and the laser works to eradicate the fungal spores underneath your nail through thermal energy.
We recommend that you have approximately four procedures to clear the fungal nail infection and leave you feeling comfortable and aesthetically pleasing nails.
You may find that a patch test is required before treatment can commence.
If you are struggling with a fungal nail infection, don’t hesitate to contact us today to book your appointment!
