Fungal Toenail Infection Causes & Treatment in Singapore

What are Fungal Toenails?

Fungal toenails, also known as onychomycosis, are a common and persistent condition affecting many middle-aged Singaporeans. This infection can lead to unsightly nails and discomfort, impacting your confidence and quality of life. At UFIT Podiatry in Singapore, we specialise in advanced treatments for fungal toenails, including PACT Photodynamic Therapy, ensuring effective and long-lasting results.

Fungal toenails occur when fungi infect one or more of your toenails. This condition often starts as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the toenail and can progress to cause the nail to thicken, discolor, and crumble at the edges. Understanding the causes and symptoms of fungal toenails is crucial for seeking timely and effective treatment.

Symptoms of Fungal Toenails

Common symptoms of fungal toenails include:

Discolored nails,
usually yellow or brown

The nail plate may change colour, indicating a change in nail health.

Thickened nails

The nail may become noticeably thicker, sometimes making it difficult to trim or fit comfortably in shoes.

Brittle or crumbly nails

Nails can become brittle and prone to crumbling at the edges, or even separate from the nail bed.

Distorted nail shape

The nail's shape can become irregular or distorted, sometimes lifting from the nail bed.

A foul smell coming from the nail

You might find an unpleasant odour coming from the affected nail.

Pain & discomfort
when wearing shoes

As the nail thickens or distorts, individuals may experience discomfort or pain when wearing footwear.

Exposure to Fungi Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Public spaces like swimming pools, communal showers, and gyms are common areas where one can be exposed to foot fungus.

Nail Injuries Minor trauma or repeated pressure on the nail, such as from ill-fitting shoes, can create small openings or damage the nail plate, making it easier for fungi to enter and cause a nail infection.

Poor Foot Hygiene Not changing your socks regularly or wearing non-breathable, tight shoes can create a consistently moist and warm environment for your foot, which is an ideal breeding ground for fungi.

Health Conditions Certain underlying health conditions can reduce the body's natural ability to resist infections, thus increasing the likelihood of developing a fungal toenail infection that may require treatment.

Aging As individuals age, reduced blood circulation to the feet and prolonged exposure over a lifetime can make toenails more susceptible to fungi.

1. Thorough Assessment

We perform a detailed examination to diagnose the extent of the fungal infection and identify the specific fungi involved.

2. Customised Management Plans

Based on the assessment, we develop a tailored management plan, combining various therapies for optimal results.

3. Advanced Therapies

Our podiatrists specialise in advanced management methods such as PACT Photodynamic Therapy. This cutting-edge method uses light and a special photosensitive agent to destroy fungal cells, providing a pain-free and effective solution. We also offer the option of combining PACT therapy with oral antifungal medication for more stubborn infections.

5. Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed, ensuring the best possible outcome.

4. Preventative Advice

We provide guidance on proper foot hygiene and care to prevent the recurrence of fungal toenails.

Management of Fungal Toenails at UFIT Podiatry

At UFIT Podiatry, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating fungal toenails. Our advanced treatment options include:

1. Thorough Assessment

We perform a detailed examination to diagnose the extent of the fungal infection and identify the specific fungi involved.

2. Customised Management Plans

Based on the assessment, we develop a tailored management plan, combining various therapies for optimal results.

3. Advanced Therapies

4. Preventative Advice

We provide guidance on proper foot hygiene and care to prevent the recurrence of fungal toenails.

5. Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed, ensuring the best possible outcome.

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SINGAPORE'S MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

SINGAPORE'S MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY We're the only clinic in Singapore to offer advanced gait analysis and in-house 3D-printed insoles with a comprehensive report.

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ELITE LEVEL OF CARE FOR
ALL INDIVIDUALS

We offer personalized, evidence-based lower limb care for athletes, active individuals, and parents seeking specialized treatment for their children.

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GET ACCESS TO A MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS

We go beyond addressing your injury or pain. Through our Circle of Care, you can access our team of experts with a vast range of specialised experience and knowledge.

What to expect on your first visit

FULL BODY ASSESSMENT

We recognise the interconnectedness of musculoskeletal health, so we assess your entire body, not just your feet. We also focus on vital health indicators impacting your lower limbs, like circulation, nerve function and alignment.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

We use cutting-edge diagnostic tools to get real-time insights into your soft tissue, joints and structures to provide a fast and accurate diagnosis.

DETAILED REPORT

Post-assessment, you will receive clear and comprehensive reports detailing our findings. This will allow you to make informed decisions on your treatment plan.

TREATMENT PLAN

Together with you, we formulate a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan that suit your goals and preferences.

Lewis Nurney

Lewis is a highly experienced podiatrist with over 5 years of practice in Singapore, bringing his expertise to UFIT's comprehensive Circle of Care. As Head of Podiatry at UFIT Club Street, he specialises in sports podiatry, innovative orthotics for adults and children (including 3D-printed custom insoles, Paediatric AFOs and SMOs for pediatric flat feet), and minimally invasive procedures.

A first-class honours graduate from the University of Huddersfield (UK), Lewis holds dual certifications in Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), Diagnostic Ultrasound and Running Gait analysis. Previously with East Coast Podiatry, he now provides patient-centred care at UFIT, specialising in non-surgical management of conditions like Foot Pain, Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendinopathy in both children and adults, ultimately focused on alleviating discomfort and restoring optimal foot function.

Elliot Yeldham

Elliott is a dedicated podiatrist with over 7 years of healthcare experience, gained in both the UK's National Health Service (NHS) and private practice. He holds an Honours degree in Podiatry from Cardiff Metropolitan University (Wales), and brings a wealth of expertise to Singapore.

Specialising in Musculoskeletal (MSK) podiatry, Elliott's interests include sport podiatry and the management of gait abnormalities in both adults and children. He is also recognised for his skill and patient-focused approach in minimally invasive procedures for ingrown toenails and wart removal. Committed to a patient-centred and multidisciplinary model, Elliott actively stays informed of the latest healthcare advancements through clinical research and international conferences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fungal Toenails and Nail Fungus Treatment

Are fungal toenail infections contagious? Yes, fungal toenail infections can spread through contact with fungi present on contaminated surfaces in warm, moist public areas like changing rooms or swimming pools. Practising good foot hygiene and wearing appropriate footwear in such environments helps minimise transmission risk for foot fungus.

Can fungal toenail infections spread to other nails? Yes, a fungal toenail infection can spread from one nail to another, or even to the skin of the foot. It's important to get appropriate treatment for foot fungus as soon as possible to minimise the chances of an infection spreading.

What happens if I ignore toenail fungus? Ignoring toenail fungus and avoiding treatment can lead to them worsening over time, potentially causing your nail to thicken, discolouration, and discomfort when wearing shoes. Appropriate management strategies can help prevent progression of a fungal toenail infection and improve the nail's appearance.

How is a fungal toenail infection diagnosed?

A formal diagnosis of a fungal toenail infection is typically made by a medical doctor or podiatrist. As part of overall podiatry services, they may examine the nail and often take a small sample for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of fungus.

How do I know if my fungal toenail infection is severe? Signs that a fungal toenail infection is severe include significant thickening, widespread discolouration, or pain. If you observe these changes, it's advisable to consult a podiatrist or medical professional for an assessment and to seek treatment.

Does oral antifungal medication help with the infection? Oral antifungal medication can be a suitable treatment for managing stubborn fungal nail infection. Your podiatrist will be able to advise you if oral treatment is appropriate based on your personal situation.

Is laser treatment effective for fungal toenail infections? Laser therapy is an advanced approach that some individuals explore for fungal nail treatment. It uses specific light wavelengths to address fungal components. Consulting with a podiatrist is key to understanding if this option is appropriate for you.

What does a nail avulsion procedure involve for treating fungal toenails? A nail avulsion procedure involves the complete or partial removal of the affected nail. This is typically considered when other fungus nail treatment approaches are not suitable, and allows the nail to reset.

What types of shoes should I wear if I have a fungal toenail infection? Opt for breathable footwear made from natural materials like leather or canvas for better air circulation. Avoid tight-fitting shoes that cause pressure. You should also change your socks frequently and avoid a moist, humid environment that is favourable for fungal growth.

Can a fungal toenail infection come back after treatment?

Yes, there is a possibility for fungal nail infection to reoccur even after a successful treatment. Ongoing good foot hygiene and preventative measures are key to prevent an infection from reoccurring.

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Fungal Nail Infection

What are Fungal Toenails?

Symptoms of Fungal Toenails