Fungal Nail Infections

Fungal infections of both the skin and nails of the feet are caused by microscopic organisms which flourish most in dark, moist, warm environments. So when a foot becomes hot and sweaty inside a shoe, it produces the perfect environment for fungal spores to multiply.

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Signs and symptoms of fungal nail infections

The most typical fungal infection of the skin is known as Athletes Foot or by its medical name tinea pedis. Athlete’s foot most commonly affects the skin between the toes or on the bottom of the feet, causing peeling, redness, itching and sometimes a burning sensation as well as blisters.

The infection can spread to your toenails (onychomycosis) and can lead to nails that appear thickened and discoloured and frequently have a crumbly texture. However, not all nail symptoms like this are due to fungal infection. There are many other conditions which cause a similar appearance, such as poor circulation to the nail bed, psoriasis of the nails etc.

Treatment for fungal nail infections

Your podiatrist will discuss with you multiple treatment options including time, topical treatments, tablets, and Lacuna Fungal Nail Treatment. This is a relatively new treatment which is showing very positive results.

Topical involves the use of topical treatments including nail lacquers, oils and other preparations. This is suitable for some less severe infections. It is also vital that the nail is debrided by a podiatrist as a thick nail provides the correct environment for the fungus to spread and prevents the medication from penetrating to where it is needed.

Tablets can be a very effective treatment but increasingly GPs and health professionals are concerned about the side effects it can cause, particularly regarding the liver.

Lacuna Fungal Nail Treatment drills multiple holes across the fungal area. Depending on patients’ tolerance we try to drill as much of the nail away as possible. Then apply lamisil spray for toenail fungus across the nail plate and get the patient to apply this every day and return in 6 weeks for a review.

Lamisil is an anti-fungal drug that is also known as terbinafine. Terbinafine works to create an imbalance in the fungal cell wall, this then causes fungal cell death so it is known as a ‘Fungicidal’ drug. To ensure this treatment works patients must apply the spray daily, and follow the advice given by their podiatrist.

 

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Whether you need to ask a question, make or change an appointment or just want to book an appointment, our dedicated and knowledgeable reception staff are available to help.

To get in touch, simply give us a call on 01737 762990 during our opening hours or send us a message using the contact form and we will get in touch.

Please note online booking is currently not available for Podiatry Services due to the often complex nature of enquiries

Other Conditions We Treat

Ingrowing Toenails

INGROWING TOENAILS

footzone-mortons-neuroma

MORTON’S NEUROMA

metatarsalgia

METATARSALGIA

Arthritis

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Diabetes Risk Factors

FOOT CARE FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES

What our clients say

I have been attending this clinic for the last 13 – 14 years. I have problems with ingrowing toenails and have had nail surgery. The care I received was excellent both with the surgery and aftercare

Pam M – Reigate

I was quite anxious on my first visit, having never used any service like this before, but they immediately put me at ease. They are so welcoming and friendly, knowledgeable and informative. The clinic is exceptionally well run, clean and organised and I feel in safe hands. Now it’s one of my favourite health “jobs” to do

Mandy R – Horley

This was my first visit to a podiatrist. I was really impressed on my first visit and everyone was very friendly. They diagnosed my problem very quickly and knew exactly what to do. I was immediately put at ease and, although the problem has required further treatment, I feel that my feet are in very good hands!!! Thank you!!!

Philip R – Redhill

Very quickly established the cause of issues and a plan to get it sorted. Each appointment has been excellent and very clear on how to tackle the problem. Fingers crossed for flip-flops in the summer!

Laura S – Reigate

Very positive experience. Lovely people and excellent treatment over several years. My feet are kept in prime condition!

Robert B – Redhill

Very professional, excellent service, and always a friendly face! You would be hard pushed to find a better Podiatrist.

Sue SJ – Reigate