Fungal nail infection, medically termed Onychomycosis, is a common condition that occurs when fungi (dermatophytes, yeasts, or moulds) invade the toenail unit – the nail plate, nail bed, or root. This invasion often leads to changes in the nail’s appearance, such as discoloration, thickening, and crumbling.
Recognising the Signs of Toenail Fungus
Fungal nail infections usually develop slowly — but the longer you wait, the harder they are to treat.
Common symptoms include:
The nail may lose its clarity and develop uneven or patchy colours, often spreading across the surface.
Affected nails can become bulky, making it difficult to cut them using regular clippers.
Pieces of the nail may break off easily, especially near the tips or sides.
The nail may start separating from the nail bed, causing a lifted appearance.
A chalky or powdery substance may collect beneath the nail, sometimes making shoes feel tighter.
Odour may develop due to trapped moisture and debris, especially in enclosed footwear.
As the nail thickens, it can press against the shoe, leading to soreness or irritation.
Not sure if it is nail fungus?
What Causes Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus is caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or moulds that thrive in warm, moist environments. These fungi enter the nail through tiny cracks or skin breaks. Common causes include:
Are You At A Higher Risk?
Certain factors make fungal nail infections more likely:
Nail growth slows with age, and changes in circulation make infections more likely.
Reduced blood flow to the feet can affect nail health and delay healing.
A lowered immune response may make it harder for the body to manage fungal infections.
Constant moisture creates a welcoming environment for fungi to thrive.
Shoes that trap heat and sweat increase the risk of developing or worsening infections.
What to Expect from Treatment at Fine Podiatry
Your comfort and results are our priority. Here’s what your treatment journey looks like:
Most patients begin seeing improvement after just a few sessions.
Our Nail Fungus Management Strategies
We provide fungus nail treatment options in Singapore that focus on comfort, hygiene, and long-term care. Treatments are chosen based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and personal needs. These may include:
How To Prevent Nail Fungus
Good habits go a long way in keeping your nails fungus-free:
Need personalised prevention tips?
Fungal nail infections can be stubborn and slow to clear. Here are some answers to questions many patients ask before starting treatment.
The best approach depends on the severity observed during clinical assessment, patient health, and preferences, determined after consultation at Fine Podiatry Clinic. Our most popular treatment would be the PACT treatment where patients see 85% of improvement after 6-8 sessions
Yes. It can spread to other toenails, the skin (athlete's foot), or even fingernails. The fungi can spread from person to person through direct contact or, more commonly, indirect contact via contaminated surfaces (floors, clippers, shoes).
To remove the nail fungus completely, it takes time as a new, healthy nail grow out completely in approximately 6 months for toenails, sometimes longer. You may see improvement earlier, but completing the full treatment course is crucial.
It is best to avoid regular salons. Medical pedicures are safer and performed under sterile conditions by professionals.
Fungus Nail Infection can be a frustrating condition, but effective management is possible and early treatment leads to faster results. Book a consultation now to get a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
