Fungal infection

Fungal infections affect the skin and nails; they can be uncomfortable as well as unsightly. If you have a fungal fungal infection affecting the foot then why not visit one of our podiatrists at Chiropody.co.uk, who will advise you on the best course of action.

What is a fungal infection?

A fungal infection is an infection caused by fungus. Fungus is able to live on skin and nail as both of these are made up of keratin, which is a protein and a source of food for fungus. Feet are prone to fungal infections due to the fact that feet are often in footwear and this provides a nice dark, warm, moist environment in which the fungus can thrive.

What causes a fungal infection?

Fungal infections are caused by fungus. The fungus enters the skin or nail through breaks and abrasions. Some people are more at risk of developing a fungal infection than others, these include:

Those who do not dry their skin properly, or those who have moist skin due to sweat not being able to evaporate (this may happen if you wear synthetic socks and hosiery or wear synthetic footwear), this is because fungi like a moist environment
Those who take steroids
Those who have diabetes
People who have a weak immune system
People who use communal areas such as changing rooms and swimming pools

What are the signs and symptoms of a fungal infection?

The signs and symptoms of a fungal infection depend on where the fungal infection is. If the fungal infection affects the nail it will discolour, and as time goes on the infection will spread and the nail may begin to lift from the nail bed. Eventually the nail will thicken and crumble, and other nails may begin to be affected.

If a fungal infection affects the skin between the toes this area will become red, sore, itchy and the skin will crack.

If the fungal infection affects the sole of the foot the skin will itch and become dry, sometimes the skin will blister.

Types of fungal infection

Tine Pedis

Tine Pedis is the medical name for athlete's foot. Athlete's foot can affect both the sole of the foot and between the toes.

Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is the medical name for a fungal infection affecting the nails

How is a fungal infection diagnosed?

A fungal infection of the skin or nails can be quickly and easily diagnosed by one of our podiatrists based on the signs and symptoms and a physical examination. Occasionally a scraping may berequired to confirm the diagnosis, although this is not always necessary.

Benefit of podiatry for a fungal infection

If you have a fungal infection you can expect the following benefits following assessment and treatment:

Accurate diagnosis
Improvement in skin and nail condition
Improvement in appearance of skin and / or nails
Improvement in comfort

What would podiatry for a fungal infection involve?

The first stage of an appointment at Chiropody.co.uk is an assessment. During the assessment the podiatrist will obtain a full history, which would include a medical history and a history of the problem. Your podiatrist will then use this information, along with the signs and symptoms and an examination, to form a diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan. The treatment for fungal infection will depend on where it is and the advancement of symptoms, but may include:

Summary

A fungal infection is an infection of the skin and/or nails by fungi. A fungal infection can be uncomfortable and unsightly, making your activities of daily living difficult. If you have a fungal infection and you are worried then why not visit Chiropody.co.uk. At Chiropody.co.uk we are skilled in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of a variety of foot and lower limb pathologies. We will correctly diagnose your condition and prescribe a treatment plan suited to you.

To arrange an assessment with one our podiatrists please email office@chiropody.co.uk or call 0330 088 4222.

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