Fungal infections on the skin & nails are quite common. This blog will help outline what causes them, what you can do to treat it and tips to prevent it from spreading!

There are two main types of fungal infections on your feet. 

First, we have Tinea Pedis, more commonly known as “Athletes Foot” which can affect the bottom of your feet and between your toes.

Secondly, we have fungal nails which can cause your nails to become discoloured and crumble away very easily.

How is it caused?

Athletes Foot:

It can cause peeling, redness and itching on your feet. 

The fungus that causes this loves warm, moist environments such as; public pools/showers, changing rooms, sweaty feet and in people who wear tight shoes with sweaty socks!

As you may have guessed, it is very common in the summer months.

Fungal Nail:

The fungus that infects your nails is naturally on your skin and nails, but when it gets a chance it can grow rapidly.

Fungal nail infections also grow in warm moist environments or can be picked up from somebody else!

What is the treatment?

 Athletes Foot:

The treatment outcomes with athletes foot are quite good! 

The main one that we would recommend is Lamisil cream. It can be found in most pharmacies.

Another good treatment that suits some people is an antifungal powder that you put into your socks.

Ask your pharmacist about different brands.

Fungal Nail:

Fungal nail infections can be very stubborn and difficult to treat.

Having your nails filed down by a podiatrist and then using an over the counter anti-fungal nail treatment. Filing of the nails allows the anti-fungal treatment to penetrate the nail bed.

Lacuna Nail Treatment, performed in our clinic, involves a channel being created from the nail plate to the nail bed. An anti-fungal spray is then used to penetrate the nail bed and clear the infection at its source.

Antifungal tablets, known as Lamisil, contain an ingredient called Terbinafine and can be prescribed for a couple of months to help clear the infection. 

     There are many 'old wives' tales' surrounding the treatment of fungal nail infections such as using apple cider vinegar or vicks rub, however there is no clear evidence supporting those.

Always use a different towel when drying your feet and make sure nobody else in the house uses it after you…Tips to prevent them spreading! 

1. Be sure to dry your feet thoroughly, a lot of people tend to neglect them after a shower.

2. Keep your socks nice and dry. If you have sweaty feet, change them in the middle of the day.

3. Wear flip-flops if you're in public places to prevent anyone else from getting an infection!

4. Speak to one of our Podiatrists if you have any concerns about the condition of your skin or nails.

If You Are Worried About A Fungal Infection Call Us Now On 📞01 9012009 

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