Many people we see for a routine foot and toenail check-up at our North Oakville Foot Clinic, just steps from Burlington and Milton, don’t realize they have Fungal Nails until Chiropodist (Foot Specialist) Brittney informs them. Fungal nails are not only visually unappealing, but area also problematic for overall foot health. To avoid long-term problems, people suffering with fungal nails are encouraged to see a medical opinion by a Chiropodist like Brittney Wirtz.

Fungal nails:

Hundreds of thousands of people in Ontario suffer with the discomfort, embarrassment and complications of fungal nails. Fungal nails, (“Onychomycosis”) cause brittle, yellow nails due to dermatophytes, non-dermatophytes and candida bacterias that feed on the keratin found in nails. Unfortunately, our feet tend to be a breeding ground for these types of bacteria (unlike the nail beds on our hands) as the feet provide the warm, dark and moist environment that the bacteria thrive in.

How to I know if I Have Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus is easily detectable as it causes toe nails to yellow and/or have white spots and nails may become thickened, crumbly, discolored and cracked. This process usually begins with the big toe’s toenail.

If left untreated fungal nails may begin to develop secondary bacterial infections. Also, psychosocial issues may form if the fungal infection enters the bloodstream and crosses the blood-brain barrier.

What is the Treatment for Fungal nails?

We have had much success at our Oakville Chiropodist clinic using  topical and/or oral fungal antibiotics  treatments or anti-fungal nail lacquer, however if the infection continues, worsens or returns (extremely common)—or is a medication-resistant bacteria—other measures may be necessary.

In more severe cases, or for those who are less patient with the process, surgical correction may be  to permanently remove all, or part of, your nail(s). If this process is necessary the nail will be removed and will generally regrow within a few months up to a year.

If you have, or suspect you have, fungal nails contact our Oakville clinic for a complete podiatric foot assessment as well as to discuss the most effective solutions.