Nail fungus - onychomycosis

Nail fungus (also known medically as onychomycosis) is an infection caused by fungi (usually dermatophytes, yeasts or moulds) that attack the nail plate and the skin under the nail. The infection most commonly develops on the toenails, but the fingernails can also be affected.

What causes toenail fungus?

There are several reasons why a fungal infection can develop, including:

• A moist, warm environment: fungi prefer moist, warm places such as closed shoes or communal areas such as swimming pools and showers.
• Weakened immune systems: people with weakened immune systems (e.g. diabetics, elderly people) are more susceptible to fungal infections.
• Nail injuries.
• Inadequate hygiene.

How can nail fungus be treated?

• Topical products: brushes or creams containing antifungal agents. These are usually effective for milder infections.
• Oral antifungal medicines: If topical treatment is not enough, the doctor may prescribe tablets that work internally, but these can have side effects, such as liver damage.
• Nail removal: In more severe cases, partial or complete (surgical) removal of the infected nail may be necessary.
• Natural remedies: some therapists use tea tree oil or vinegar foot baths to try to alleviate the infection, although these are not always proven to be effective.

Laser treatment for toenail fungus

Laser treatment is an increasingly popular alternative method for eliminating toenail fungus.

The heat emitted by the laser kills the fungi under the nail plate without damaging the surrounding tissue.

The benefits include:

• It does not have side effects such as medication.
• It is simple to perform.
• It may be faster acting than medication.
• It may be effective for resistant or recurrent infections.

Experience shows that soft laser treatment of toenail fungus helps in 90% of cases, but is not always effective. The number of treatments needed should be increased depending on the severity of the infection. In some cases, several months of treatment may be necessary.