Nails
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Before taking a course of tablet treatment for fungal nail infection, diagnosis has to be confirmed by the doctor taking nail clippings from one or more of the affected nails and sending it to the hospital lab for fungal, stain and culture. It usually takes a month to get the full results back as fungus grows very slowly in the lab.
If the nail clippings confirm that there is a fungal nail infection which is sensitive to Lamisil tablets, the doctor will arrange to take routine bloods from you before starting a three month course of Lamisil tablets. It is important that you have your bloods checked before starting the course of treatment and have the bloods repeated one month into the course of treatment to ensure the tablets are not causing any side effects. Side effects from Lamisil tablets are rare but occasionally they can cause nausea, a generalised rash or liver problems. Should you develop any new symptoms that you feel may be as a result of the Lamisil tablets, please stop the tablets immediately and let the doctor who prescribed the tablets know.
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Fungal infection of nails (tinea unguium) is common. The infection causes thickened and unsightly nails which sometimes become painful. Medication often works well to clear the infection but you need to take medication for several weeks.
Who develops fungal nail infection (tinea unguium)?
Between 3 and 8 out of 100 people in the UK will have a fungal nail infection at some stage of their lives. Toenails are more commonly affected than fingernails. It is more common in people aged over 60 and in younger people who share communal showers, such as swimmers or athletes.
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An ingrowing toenail is a common condition which may cause discomfort or become infected. Various treatments can be given by a doctor or a person qualified to diagnose and treat foot disorders (a chiropodist). See Dr Buckley if you have symptoms of infection around the nail, particularly if you have diabetes, a poor immune system or other foot problems.
What is an ingrowing toenail?
The nail becomes ingrowing when the side of the nail cuts into the skin next to the nail. This can become painful. The skin next to the nail may also become infected or inflamed. Any toe can be affected, but it is usually the big toe. It is a common problem, especially in teenagers and young adults.
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