Onychomycosis

Patient Information: Understanding Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)

What is Onychomycosis?

Onychomycosis, commonly known as fungal nail infection, is a fungal infection that affects the nails, usually the toenails but can also affect fingernails. It occurs when fungi, such as dermatophytes, invade the nails, leading to changes in appearance and texture. Onychomycosis can cause nails to become thickened, discolored, brittle, and distorted. It is a common condition that can affect individuals of all ages, but it is more prevalent in older adults.

Causes of Onychomycosis:

1. Fungal Infection: Onychomycosis is primarily caused by fungal organisms, including dermatophytes, yeast, and mold. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and communal showers.
2. Risk Factors: Factors that increase the risk of developing onychomycosis include:

• Aging
• Trauma to the nails
• Poor circulation
• Diabetes
• Immunodeficiency
• Nail psoriasis or other nail disorders
• Prolonged exposure to damp or humid conditions

Treatment Options for Onychomycosis:

1. Topical Antifungal Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription-strength antifungal nail lacquers, creams, or solutions may be used to treat mild superficial cases of onychomycosis. These medications are applied directly to the affected nails daily or as directed by your dermatologist.
   
   Rejuvenail Antifungal Nail solution, apply at night onto nail and surrounding skin. Wash off in the morning.
   
2. Oral Antifungal Medications: In cases of severe or resistant onychomycosis, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed by your dermatologist. These medications work systemically to eradicate the fungal infection from within.
   
3. Nail Debridement: Your dermatologist may recommend debridement (trimming and thinning) of the affected nails to remove as much infected nail material as possible before applying topical or oral antifungal treatments.

General Measures to Minimize Spread:

1. Keep Feet Clean and Dry: Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly using a hair dryer on cold, especially between the toes, after bathing or swimming.
2. Wear Breathable Footwear: Choose shoes made of breathable materials, such as leather or mesh, and alternate between different pairs to allow them to air out and reduce moisture buildup.
3. Change Socks Regularly: Wear clean socks made of moisture-wicking materials, such as cotton or wool, and change them daily or more frequently if they become damp or sweaty.
4. Avoid Walking Barefoot: Wear sandals or protective footwear in public areas such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and communal showers to reduce the risk of picking up fungal infections.
5. Trim Nails Properly: Keep your nails trimmed straight across and avoid cutting them too short to reduce the risk of trauma and injury to the nail bed.
6. Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share nail clippers, files, socks, or shoes with others to minimise the risk of spreading fungal infections.
7. Bleach: Clean bathrooms floors regularly.