What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that occurs when a fungal infection affects one or more of the nails. This can happen on both fingernails and toenails but is more common on the latter. It often begins as a yellow or white spot under the tip of the nail. As the infection deepens, it may cause the nail to discolour, thicken, and crumble at the edge. Over time, the condition may become uncomfortable or even painful.
Nail fungus is generally caused by a type of fungus called dermatophytes, although yeasts and moulds can also be culprits. These organisms thrive in warm, moist environments, which makes sweaty shoes and public showers common places to contract the infection.
The likelihood of developing nail fungus increases with age, poor circulation, a weakened immune system, and exposure to moist environments like swimming pools, gyms, and showers. Those with diabetes or athlete’s foot are also at greater risk.
It’s estimated that toenail fungus affects up to 1.6 million Australians.
How toenail fungus is diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves a visual inspection and may be confirmed through lab tests like nail clippings or scrapings.
How to treat toenail fungus?
Toenail Fungus treatment options include:
- Prescription antifungal medications
- Medicated nail polish or cream
- Photodynamic Therapy
Galleria Podiatry Toenail Fungus Treatment: Photodynamic Therapy
It can be frustrating to have to apply the lacquers daily/weekly especially considering it takes at least 3 months to see improvement, given the slow growth of toenails. Furthermore, prescribed oral medications can interact with other drugs and can produce adverse effects, making them unsuitable for some people.
Toenail Fungus Treatment at Galleria Podiatry
Photodynamic Therapy is an alternative treatment provided by Galleria Podiatry to treat toenail fungus. A single PACT nail fungus treatment session will involve the following:
- Our Podiatrists will firstly debride and remove all of the infected part of the nail.
- A special PACT nail fungus gel is then applied to the nail and left to absorb for 10 minutes. This gel stains the fungal cells making them sensitive to the light emitted by the scientifically tested PACT LED lamp.
- The PACT LED light is applied for 9.5 minutes, penetrating the nail and destroying the fungal cells.
PACT nail fungus therapy is 100% safe with no known contra-indications. Repeated exposure to the light does not produce any adverse effects.
Restore Your Nails
At Galleria Podiatry we offer KeryFlex™ treatment to restore the appearance of toenails. KeryFlex™ is a treatment that can restore the appearance of toenails affected by nail fungal infection, nail deformity, psoriasis nails, nail affected by trauma.
Toenail Fungus Prevention
Because nail fungus can be stubborn, it may take several months to see results from treatment, and recurrence is common. Preventative measures include keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing moisture-wicking socks, using antifungal sprays or powders, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms or swimming pools.
Our Gap-Free Offer
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Your risk-free, no obligation Lower Limb Assessment includes:
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NOTE: DIGITAL HEALTH INSURANCE CARDS WILL NOT ALLOW YOU TO CLAIM ON-SITE so please bring your ‘physical’ card with you.
