Fungal Nail Infection

Many adults suffer from this problem at some stage in their lives and it is referred to by some doctors using one of two Latin names: onychomycosis or Tinea unguium.

What is it?

It is a condition where the hard keratin from which the nail is formed is infected with a fungus. All humans have a number of fungi present on the surface of their skin and one of these can cause the problem.

Treating the condition

Because it is not normally painful and does not usually lead to complications, there is no need to treat the condition if you do not wish to. If on the other hand, you would like to rid yourself of this unsightly condition that can make it difficult to cut your nails, there are a number of options open to you, of which terbinafine is one of the more popular.

Available in tablet form and with a success rate of over 70%, a complete cure may occur in a matter of weeks when taking this medicine. However, in more severe cases, especially those involving toenails, it could take 3-6 months for the problem to clear up completely.

Alternative treatments include itraconazole, which can be used in cases where the condition is resistant to terbinafine, and a thin liquid that can be painted onto your nails on a daily basis.

Are you likely to get it?

Although it is impossible to say whether a particular person will contract this condition, certain groups are more at risk than others. People over the age of fifty are more likely to have to deal with this problem as are younger people who often shower with others in sports centres and swimming pools.

If you live in a country where the climate is hot and humid, the chances of becoming infected are greater and people with poor circulation can be more at risk too. Washing your hands or feet multiple times during the day can soften your nails and make them more vulnerable to becoming infected.

Diagnosis

In most cases, the condition causes no pain and the only symptom is the appearance of fungi on the surface of the nails. Sometimes, the keratin may grow thicker and change colour and in severe cases, white patches can be seen as the nail begins to separate from the bed.

It is usually quite easy to ascertain whether or not you are suffering from this condition although if you are in any doubt, you should consult a medical professional.

Our service

As registered doctors and qualified pharmacists, we offer online consultations to patients and can issue private prescriptions, which are sent electronically to our partner pharmacy. Orders received before 3.30pm Monday to Friday will be despatched the same day, and can be delivered directly to your address the next day. If you want to know how to get rid of fungal nail infections, we can advise you of the best way to treat your condition.

Terbinafine

Usually offered in 250mg tablets, Terbinafine is an antifungal medicine designed to treat fungal nail infections in as little as six weeks. By taking a course of this antifungal treatment as outlined by a doctor, you can rid yourself of unsightly nails and regain some of that lost confidence.