Fungal nail is surprisingly common, with around three in 100 people affected. It can involve part or all of the nail, including the nail plate, nail bed, and root of the nail. Fungal nail infection usually affects adults, and men more than women.
The fungi are passed from person to person by direct contact. Fungal nail infection in the toenail is most commonly caused by a fungal skin infection, such as athlete’s foot. Around a third of people with athlete’s foot will also have a nail infection.
The symptoms are yellow/ brownish discolouration of the nail, the appearance of the nail is rougher, more brittle and with ridges, with pieces of nail breaking off or even coming away completely. Underneath and around the nail, skin can sometimes become inflamed and painful.
If it is not treated, in most cases, the nail will eventually crumble and become detached from the toe or finger.
Factors that can increase the risk of nail infections include using artificial (cosmetic ) nails, nail damage, constant nail biting, health conditions such as diabetes or psoriasis, a weakened immune system, being in poor general health, living in a warm and humid climate, and smoking.
Several types of fungus cause nail infections. Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection of the toes that easily spreads to the toenails; and candida is a yeast that can cause an infection of the skin around the nails (usually the fingernails ).
Naloc is a new treatment for nails infected by nail fungus or affected by psoriasis. Naloc prevents the growth of nail fungus, gives a smooth nail surface, and restores the moisture balance in the nail. Use of Naloc has shown improvement in the appearance of fungal nails after only two weeks and 92 per cent of patients reported an improvement after eight weeks.
This week Weirs Pharmacy Mullingar have Naloc on special offer at €19.95 (€10 off ). Pop in for advice on Naloc and other fungal nail remedies, or call (044 ) 9348462.
