Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail. It is a common condition affecting the toenails and fingernails but particularly the toenails. The nails can become thickened, discoloured or brittle. The nail bed can sometimes become painful and inflammed and need to be removed. Onychomycosis can also cause psychological distress to the sufferer due to the unattractive appearance of the toenails.

There are many reasons fungal infections can occur, ageing, previous damage to the nail or prolonged exposure to a damp environment. Interesting there has been some evidence to show that Pedicures may damage the cuticle during the practice of pushing the cuticles back to enlarge the nail surface before applying nail varnish which may allow micro-organisms to enter the nail bed.

There is also a risk of cross contamination if equipment is not single use or has not been sterilised. It is therefore important to ask your Beauty Therapist how there equipment is sterilised. More research needs to be undertaken in this area.

Here at market street clinic we can offer advice regarding Onychomycosis and the various treatments.