Who are most often affected by nail fungal infection?

Nail fungal affects athletes (mainly swimmers), people who use pools often, those who wear shoes for many hours, people who are sweaty or exposed to humidity and heat, immunosuppressed, patients suffering from venous insufficiency or diabetes mellitus, those suffering from other skin or nail diseases and finally, people having manicures or pedicures with tools used in others. Fungi can be transmitted by sand, soil, the common use of towels and clothes and animals.

What is the clinical picture of onychomycosis?

The most common type of nail fungal infection is the so-called “peripheral onychomycosis” which appears as a white or yellow spot on the tip of the nail. As the infection progresses, the nails become dull, thick and gather beneath their surface a whitish material from which a bad odour emerges. In more advanced stages, the nail is lifted and detached from its bed, it hurts and is contaminated by additional germs.

Other clinical forms of onychomycosis are: the “white superficial” where we see small, opaque, white islands on the surface of the nail, the “proximal subungual” where a white-yellow area at the lower end of the nail creates severe pain. Finally, there is “candidal onychomycosis” which occurs due to species of Candida fungus and a yellow-green stain with horizontal ridges is observed. This fungal infection may be accompanied by redness and nail pain and in more advanced stages it leads to its complete detachment.

How is onychomycosis treated?

Antifungal medication is the most effective treatment. It requires medical attention because it can last many months and needs regular laboratory testing. There are also many topical formulations. They are quite effective in cases of mild fungal infections. That’s why they are mainly used as an adjunctive therapy. Additionally we use special laser systems or photodynamic treatment, which help to ‘’kill’’ the fungi.
Usually 2-3 sessions are required per month. In more advanced stages it is recommended to “melt” the affected nail with topical urea formulation.

What can I do to prevent nail fungal infection?

• Wear closed shoes as little as possible.
• Use cotton socks which you should change 1-2 times a day.
• After bathing, dry your feet well, especially between the toes.
• Do not walk barefoot in crowded and humid places.
• Do not share your footwear with others.
• Do not keep your nails constantly painted.
• Disinfect the manicure-pedicure tools every time before use.
• Wear gloves if you are in frequent contact with detergents and water.

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