At Fairfield Podiatry, we now have access to a fast and accurate test to check a toenail for the presence of a fungal infection.
Fungal toenails are extremely common and can occur at any age. You can pick up a fungal infection by sharing communal areas, nail care tools, shoes and socks with someone that has a fungal infection. Most often, fungal infections arise in older adults, people with reduced circulation, in the presence of diabetes, excessive sweating disorders and a compromised immune system. Fungal skin infections (tinea) often coexist with fungal toenail infections.
Toenails that appear thick, discoloured, crumbling, painful, lifting or even have an odour may be infected with one of eight common fungi (dermatophytes).
The appearance of fungal toenails can be similar to that of toenails affected by trauma and conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, pigmentation disorders and melanoma.
Treatment for fungal toenails will usually involve the combination of a topical or oral antifungal and regular cutting. As treatment can be prolonged and costly, an accurate diagnosis is crucial.
With the introduction of Diafactory Dermatophyte Test Strips, we can now provide a 97% accurate diagnosis for the most common fungal infections within 5 minutes.
Don't waste your time and money; confirm that you have a fungal toenail infection and find out the best way to treat it from the get-go. Contact us or book an appointment online today!
Author: Andrew Apolloni