Firstly, Fungal infections can affect any part of the body. Fungi are normally present in and on the body alongside various bacteria. But when a fungus begins to overgrow, you can get an infection. A fungal nail infection (Onychomycosis), also called tinea unguium, is a fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails is where the fungal microbe invades the nail bed. This condition causes fingernails or toenails to thicken, discolour, disfigure, and split. Although a fungal nail infection is a cosmetic concern, if left untreated toenails can become so thick that they press against the inside of the shoes, causing pressure, irritation, and pain. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so this type of environment can cause them to naturally overpopulate.
This is an increasingly common nail disorder in adults The risk of having this nail disease increases with age and through underlying nail disease. Fungi that are already present in or on your body can cause nail infections. If you have come in contact with someone else who has a fungal infection, you may have contracted it as well. Fungal infections affect toenails more commonly than fingernails, likely because your toes are usually confined to shoes, where they’re in a warm, moist environment, in which the fungi thrive.
Symptoms of fungal nail infection include:
It’s common to seek over-the-counter ways of treating fungal nails, or oral medication prescribed by your doctor but laser treatments are an alternative option.
A Laser beam will destroy the spores responsible for the fungal infection. You will likely need a minimum of 3 sessions but number of sessions will vary depending on the severity of the infection.
Results will become apparent as the new nail grows, which should be clear of infection.
