Núñez de Balboa, 107 - Consulta 201 - 28006 Madrid - 639 205 286

Podiatric dermatology

Nail fungus (Onychomycosis)

What is onychomycosis?

Onychomycosis is referred to a nail infection caused by a fungus. Onychomycosis is not only a cosmetic problem, but is affecting as well the health and the quality of life of patients.

How do I know that I have a nail fungus?

Usually, nails with onychomycosis represent the following, easy observable characteristics:

  • Changes in colour of the nail; it may become yellowish grey
  • Nails that thicken with an irregular surface
  • Brittle nails which break easily
  • Presence of yellow/brown material inside the nail
  • Bad smell

For a complete safety in the diagnosis of onychomycosis, it is recommended to perform a mycological culture analysis.

Sampling for such a culture is painless; small pieces of material obtained during the normal nail cutting process are taken. These particles are sent to the laboratory and after about a month the results will confirm the presence of the fungus including the species, or the lack thereof is reported.

Conservative treatment of onychomycosis

A fungal infection of the nail, which does not affect the whole nail can be treated by a thorough cleaning of the nail by cutting and milling. An antifungal lacquer will be applied which, later on, should be applied daily by the patient at home. It is recommended a monthly consultation of the patient, to conduct a thorough cleaning and to assess the development of the infection

If the fungal infections affect the whole nail surface, a combination of local antifungal treatment with an oral antifungal treatment might be applied. As this treatment might not be adequate for all patients, analytical liver function controls before, during and after treatment are recommended.

Auxiliary measures in the treatment of fungal nail infections

The patient suffering from onychomycosis should exercise extreme hygienic conditions to avoid contagion, both, within the family and for the own unaffected nails.

  • Treatment of the footwear with antifungal agents (powder or spray)
  • Change the footwear daily
  • Daily change of socks. Preferably use socks made of natural fibre
  • Use soap with an acid pH value and with an antimicrobial component for daily hygiene
  • Use a towel exclusively for the affected foot
  • Conduct a thorough drying of the entire foot, especially the spaces between the toes
  • Control excess sweating by using antiperspirant products

Ask for an appointment

Call us, we will be happy to answer your questions and to assist you in all issues related to your feet.

By appointment: 639 205 286

Monday through Friday from 9:30 to 20:30

Núñez de Balboa 107, Consulta 201; Madrid

On request: Home care in central Madrid