Nail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is one of the most common nail conditions treated by podiatrists. It affects millions of people worldwide and can cause discoloured, thickened, brittle, or distorted toenails if left untreated.
At Advance Foot Clinic, we regularly help patients manage fungal nail infections through professional assessment, education, and evidence-based treatment options. While nail fungus is often considered a cosmetic concern, severe cases can lead to discomfort, permanent damage to the nail, and other foot problems if not properly managed.
Fungal nail infections occur when fungi invade the nail plate, nail bed, or surrounding skin. The fungi feed on keratin, the protein that makes up your nails, causing changes to the appearance and structure of the affected nail.
A fungal infection may affect one nail or multiple toenails. Over time, the nail may become:
Fungal nails most commonly affect the toenails, as fungi thrive in the warm, moist environments often found inside shoes and socks.
There are several different types of fungal nail infections.
This type often appears as a white powdery discolouration on the surface of the nail. Small pits may develop as the infection progresses.
One of the most common forms of toenail fungus. It typically starts at the edge of the nail and causes white, yellow, or brown discolouration, along with debris beneath the nail.
Similar to distal-lateral infections but more concentrated toward the centre of the nail tip. Separation of the nail from the nail bed is common.
This form begins near the cuticle and may be associated with trauma or damage to the nail fold. White or yellow discolouration develops near the base of the nail.
Often the final stage of a long-standing fungal nail infection. The entire nail becomes thickened, brittle, crumbly, and severely damaged.
Fungal nail infections occur when fungal organisms enter the nail through tiny cracks, trauma, or damaged skin around the nail.
Common causes and contributing factors include:
Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Once fungal cells enter the nail, they can spread beneath the nail plate and into the nail bed, making the infection difficult to treat without professional care.
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the infection but may include:
Early diagnosis can help prevent fungal growth from spreading and causing more extensive nail damage.
Although fungal nail infections can affect people of any age, some individuals are at greater risk.
Risk factors include:
Health conditions that affect blood flow can make it harder for the body to fight infection and support healthy nail growth.
Good foot hygiene plays an important role in helping prevent fungal nail infections.
We recommend:
These simple habits can help reduce the risk of fungal infection and support overall foot health.
The best treatment depends on the severity of the infection, the number of nails involved, your overall health, and your treatment goals.
Antifungal lacquers, creams, and solutions may be recommended for mild infections. These treatments often require long-term use and can be less effective when the infection extends deep into the nail.
Prescription oral medications may be suitable for some patients and can be effective in certain cases. However, they may not be appropriate for everyone due to potential side effects, health conditions, or drug interactions.
At Advance Foot Clinic, we offer advanced Bost FlexiPulse laser therapy as a non-invasive treatment option for fungal nail infections.
Unlike topical treatments, laser therapy can penetrate the nail plate and target the fungal infection within the nail bed. The treatment is pain-free, requires no downtime, and may be suitable for patients who cannot take oral medications.
Not every thickened or discoloured nail is caused by fungus. Conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, bacterial infection, and other nail conditions can sometimes look similar.
This is why professional assessment is important.
Our podiatrists will:
After treatment, ongoing foot care and good hygiene are essential for maintaining healthy nails and supporting long-term results.
Unfortunately, fungal nail infections can return.
Reinfection can occur if fungal spores remain in shoes, socks, or the surrounding environment. Continued exposure to the factors that caused the infection initially can also increase the risk of recurrence.
To reduce the likelihood of fungal nails returning, we recommend:
With proper care and ongoing prevention strategies, many patients successfully manage their condition and maintain healthier nails over the long term.
If you’ve been hiding your toenails, now’s the time to take action. Whether it’s your first infection or a recurring issue, our friendly podiatry team is here to help.
Book your appointment online or call 1300 76 33 66 today to experience our expert podiatry services at any of our five clinic locations.
