If you have noticed changes in the colour or thickness of your nail, and you feel like your nail integrity is not the same as it was, you may be dealing with a condition called “onychomycosis.” This fungal infection can affect both the nail and the surrounding tissue and can progress without the right treatment. At OLA Aesthetics, we will walk you through all of your options for relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying infection.
A Note From Dr Aleks
Toenail onychomycosis is a fairly common condition, but that doesn’t mean it is inconsequential for my patients. Nail fungal infections can cause a lot of pain and discomfort, especially when the infection is longstanding. It is worth taking the time to properly assess every case and make sure to choose the right treatment for every patient. I want to bring you lasting relief from the physical discomfort of onychomycosis while also restoring the appearance of your nail.
Common Characteristics
- Nail discolouration (yellow, white, or brown)
- Thickened or misshapen nail plate
- Brittle, crumbly, or splitting nails
- Partial lifting of the nail from the nail bed
- Localised tenderness or discomfort
Contributing Factors
- Warm, moist environments
- Repeated nail trauma or footwear pressure
- Reduced circulation to the feet
- Coexisting fungal skin infections
- Medical conditions or medications affecting nail growth
Understanding Onychomycosis
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the nail unit, most commonly involving the toenails. It occurs when dermatophytes, yeasts, or moulds enter the nail through small breaks in the nail plate or surrounding skin. A toenail infection may start with mild discolouration or textural change, and then progress to nail thickening and distortion, and sometimes to separation from the nail bed.
The condition can be influenced by environmental exposure, nail trauma, circulation changes, and underlying medical factors that affect nail growth or immune response. Fungal organisms thrive in warm, moist settings like shoes, which is why feet are particularly susceptible. Nail changes from this fungal infection can sometimes resemble other conditions, so we take time to correctly diagnose the condition before recommending a course of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Consultation at OLA Aesthetics
Like any condition, onychomycosis requires the right assessment to address the underlying cause. At OLA Aesthetics in Perth, we will spend time with you during your consultation to properly diagnose the cause of your discomfort and find the right treatments. For more information, please contact us on (08) 6114 0533 or reach out online.
