Fungal Nail Treatment Ballarat

Professional support for fungal nail infections.

Dealing with Fungal Infections

Fungal infections are often tedious and frustrating. From discoloured nails that may cause embarrassment to chronic conditions that create pain, an infection that affects your general nail health and potentially the surrounding skin is a hassle you can do without.

As with many dermatological issues affecting the feet and lower limbs, podiatrists have the ability to apply appropriate techniques with the aim of reducing the infection and preventing further occurrences. At Ballarat Podiatrist , we aim to work closely with you in our clinic to provide advice and interventions that may help you towards returning to normal activities without concerns.

What are Fungal Toenails?

When fungus gets into a nail, it can turn into a fungal nail infection, otherwise known as onychomycosis. This issue may affect your fingers or your toes. That said, it is more commonly an issue related to the feet because they are more likely to come into contact with fungus, which often lives in environments such as moist socks and on communal floors.

Once the infection has taken hold, your nails may change in appearance and you may begin to experience discomfort. This may cause issues when trying to find appropriate footwear. Fungal infections are contagious, so another potential problem is passing it on to others.

Fungal Nail Symptoms

A fungal nail infection may affect one or more nails at a time. Once one is infected, there is a potential for it to quickly spread to other nails or the surrounding skin. The problem is typically long-lasting, and without treatment, may last months or even years.

Symptoms of a nail infection may include:

Discolouration, such as the nail turning brown, yellow, or white
Crumbling, lifting, thickened, or cracking nail/s
Spots or lines on the nail
Slight odour

Fungal Nail Treatments

Podiatry nail care for fungal nail infections involves addressing the entire nail. To begin, your podiatrist will undertake a thorough assessment in an effort to confirm the issue and identify the most suitable way towards relief.

Podiatry treatment options, depending on the degree to which your nail is affected, may include:

Topical treatment
Laser treatment
General skin care
Advice regarding appropriate footwear
Wound care
Nail surgery

FAQs About Fungal Foot Conditions

Are there risk factors for fungal nail infections?

Anyone has the potential to develop a nail infection, however, there are factors that may increase your likelihood. These include:

Decreased immune system strength
Damaged nails
Use of communal areas, such as gym change rooms and pools
Reduced circulation
Not keeping feet dry
Frequently being in warm, moist environments
Sweating excessively

Does it matter when I seek help for fungal nail infections?

We aim to work towards treating your nail infection at any point. However, when the infection remains superficial it is generally easier to work with. As the issue gets deeper and wider spread, treatment may be more difficult. As such, it may be beneficial to seek assistance as early as possible.

Do I need a GP referral to see a podiatrist?

No. You can visit us without a referral. However, you may choose to obtain a referral if you are eligible for a relevant healthcare claim.

Why Choose us as Your Ballarat Podiatrist ?

Our friendly team of podiatrists is dedicated to helping our patients deal with lower leg and foot problems and skin conditions. We look forward to working with you on your journey towards better overall health and comfort.

Looking to Take Steps Towards Better Foot Health?

If you are looking for support in dealing with fungal nail infections, our Ballarat podiatrists are here for you. We aim to assist in improving foot health and potentially preventing further occurrences of infections.

Please contact our team today to organise your initial consultation.