3 ways to beat... NAIL FUNGUS

PREVENT

Fungal nail infection or onychomycosis is the growth under the nails, usually the big toe, of fungal spores similar to those that cause athlete’s foot. It’s difficult to treat, and prevention is most definitely better than cure. Podiatrist Margaret Dabbs recommends making sure the foot is completely dry before putting on socks and shoes, as moisture and warmth are the primary conduit for infection. ‘Use a hair-dryer on the feet if you need to,’ she adds.

TREAT

If your toenail resembles crumbly cheddar, you probably have an infection. It will not clear up without treatment. Terbinafine and itraconazole are commonly prescribed drugs for fungal nail infections. These need to be taken once or twice a day for several months or the infection may return. Side effects can include headache, diarrhoea, loss of sense of taste, and a rash. Laser treatment is an option but is only available privately. It can take between six and 18 months for the appearance of the affected nail to return to normal.

DON’T BOTHER

Guidelines say medicated nail paint or lacquer can be considered for mild or superficial infection. But for more deep-seated infection, the treatment could well be ineffective. And there is no evidence that herbal products are safer or more effective than standard treatments.