Fungal nails (onychomycosis) and athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) are common foot infections caused by fungi. While they share a fungal origin, they affect different areas of the foot:
- Athlete’s Foot: Affects the skin, especially between the toes.
- Fungal Nails: Targets the nail bed, causing thickened, discoloured nails.
These conditions are closely linked because an untreated athlete’s foot can easily spread to the nails.
Are Fungal Nails and Verrucas Linked?
Fungal infections and verrucas are often confused, but they are not connected:
- Fungal Nails and Athlete’s Foot: Caused by fungi (often dermatophytes).
- Verrucas: Viral growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Common Misconceptions
- Athlete’s Foot vs Verruca Foot Fungus: Athlete’s foot is not viral, and verrucas are not fungal.
- Verruca Under Toenail or Nail: Verrucas can sometimes grow under nails, but this is rare and unrelated to fungal infections.
- Athlete’s Foot Cream for Verrucas: Antifungal creams like Lamisil Athlete’s Foot Antifungal Cream do not work on verrucas.
How to Spot Fungal Nails and Athlete’s Foot
Signs of Fungal Nails
- Thickened, discoloured nails (yellow, white, or brown).
- Brittle, crumbly texture.
- Nails lifting from the nail bed.
- Unpleasant odour.
Signs of Athlete’s Foot
- Red, itchy, or scaly skin between toes.
- Cracked or peeling skin.
- Stinging or burning sensation.
- Small blisters or sores.
- Smelly feet
Why Seek Professional Treatment for Fungal Nails and Athlete’s Foot?
1. Accurate Diagnosis
A podiatrist can confirm whether your condition is fungal, viral, or bacterial.
2. Tailored Treatments
Podiatrists prescribe effective treatments based on the severity and type of infection.
3. Advanced Options
Professional care includes:
- Medical-grade antifungal creams.
- Oral antifungal medication.
- Laser treatments for fungal nails.
- Medical – Grade antifungal sprays
4. Treat Linked Conditions
Athlete’s foot often leads to fungal nails. If a athlete’s foot is reated early, it will stop the spread to the nail and the nail bed. This is then a long and slow process to removed. A podiatrist can address both issues simultaneously.
5. Faster Results
Over-the-counter treatments are often slow. Professional care delivers quicker relief with the best medicines for your needs.
6. Safe for All Ages
Podiatrists provide gentle care for children and adults.
7. Reduce Recurrence Risk
Specialist advice helps prevent reinfection.
8. Address Complications
Untreated athlete’s foot or fungal nails can lead to bacterial infections or permanent nail damage.
9. Holistic Care
Podiatrists check for underlying conditions, such as diabetes, that may worsen fungal infections.
10. Long-Term Solutions
Professional treatments restore healthy nails and skin, offering lasting results.
What Happens If Fungal Nails and Athlete’s Foot Are Ignored?
- Spread of Infection: Untreated athlete’s foot can spread to the nails, making treatment more complex.
- Prolonged Treatment Times: Fungal nail infections can take 9–12 months or longer to treat fully.
- Pain and Discomfort: Thickened nails and cracked skin can cause pain and difficulty walking.
- Increased Risk of Bacterial Infections: Broken skin from athlete’s foot creates entry points for bacteria.
10 Tips to Prevent Fungal Nails and Athlete’s Foot
- Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Fungi thrive in damp environments, so dry your feet thoroughly after washing.
- Wear Flip-Flops in Public Areas
Protect your feet in communal showers, pools, and gyms.
- Use Antifungal Powders or Sprays
Apply to feet and shoes regularly to kill fungal spores.
- Change Socks Daily
Fresh socks help reduce moisture build-up.
- Choose Breathable Shoes
Wear footwear made from materials that allow air circulation.
- Avoid Sharing Footwear or Towels
Sharing spreads fungi and other infections.
- Trim Nails Properly
Cut nails straight across and keep them short to prevent fungal growth.
- Treat Athlete’s Foot Promptly
Prevent it from spreading to nails by using an effective athlete’s foot cream or sprays. They can give you better options to Lamasil or other over the counter medicines. - Moisturise Feet Regularly
Dry, cracked skin can allow fungi to enter. - Disinfect Shoes and Nail Tools
Regularly clean footwear and nail clippers to avoid reinfection.
Home Treatments for Fungal Nails and Athlete’s Foot
If you want to try home remedies, here are some tips:
Fungal Nails
- Hydrogen Peroxide
Soaking nails in diluted hydrogen peroxide may help kill fungus.This is not always recommended. This can affect the skin in negative ways.
- Tea Tree Oil
Apply this natural antifungal oil to affected nails but results are not clinical. Fungus is not really affected by these issues and to do this over a long term, often spreads the fungus to the other feel or other family members.
- Vinegar Soaks
Soaking feet in a vinegar solution may reduce fungal growth. Once again this is not clinical. It is not a long term solution to the problem.
Athlete’s Foot
- Best Athlete’s Foot Cream
Some brands like Lamisil have good results. We can recommend different products based on the severity of the condition and Foot sprays that can treat the condition faster as they are stronger. or other products recommended in the UK.
- Hydrogen Peroxide for Athlete’s Foot
Soaking your feet in diluted hydrogen peroxide can disinfect and kill fungi. This is not always recommended as this can cause other skin issues.
- Keep Feet Dry
Always dry between your toes after bathing.
Limitations of Home Remedies
Home remedies may reduce symptoms but rarely provide a complete cure. Professional care is always more effective.
Why Bucks Foot Clinic Is the Best Choice
Expert Podiatrists
Our experienced team diagnoses and treats fungal nails and athlete’s foot with precision.
State-of-the-Art Treatments
From laser therapy to medical-grade antifungal treatments, we offer the most effective options.
High Success Rates
Our podiatrists achieve outstanding results, restoring nail health and preventing reinfection.
The Best Treatment Centre in South Bucks
Located in Amersham, Chesham, and Little Chalfont, Bucks Foot Clinic is known for its personalised care and advanced solutions.
Why Wait? Get Expert Care Today!
Don’t let fungal nails or athlete’s foot hold you back. Bucks Foot Clinic offers expert diagnosis and treatment to restore your foot health.
Contact us now to book an appointment at one of our South Bucks locations!
Book your appointment today and step into a pain-free future!
FAQ
What’s the best athlete’s foot cream?
Lamisil Antifungal Cream is highly effective. Some Antifungal sprays and drops are better at coverage.
What kills athlete’s foot instantly?
There’s no instant cure, but medical or professional treatments work quickly.
Can athlete’s foot cream treat fungal nails?
No, fungal nails require specific treatments. The fungus has reached the nail bed, and it will nnot give the desired results.
How long does it take to treat fungal nails?
It can take 9–12 months for the nail to grow out fully after effective treatment.
How is athlete’s foot linked to fungal nails?
Untreated athlete’s foot can spread to the nails, causing fungal infections.
What is the strongest treatment for athlete’s foot at home?
Antifungal creams or sprays are effective.
Can fungal nails affect overall health?
Yes, they can lead to pain, bacterial infections, and difficulty walking if untreated.
Are fungal nails and verrucas the same?
No, fungal nails are caused by fungi, while verrucas are caused by a virus.
Why choose Bucks Foot Clinic?
Our advanced treatments and experienced podiatrists ensure long-term results.
How can I prevent fungal nails and athlete’s foot?
Keep feet clean and dry, wear breathable shoes, and treat infections promptly.
