Fungal nails are one of those foot problems that can sneak up on you. They often start small—maybe just a tiny yellow or white spot on your nail—and before you know it, the nail looks thicker, brittle, and harder to cut.

It’s a very common issue we see in our Galway and Limerick clinics, and the good news is that with the right care, you can treat them and stop them from coming back. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What Exactly Are Fungal Nails?

Fungal nails (also called onychomycosis) happen when microscopic fungi get into your nail bed. This can be toenails or fingernails, but toes are affected more often because:

• Feet spend more time in warm, sweaty shoes (fungus loves moisture)

• Toenails grow more slowly, so infections have more time to develop

• Minor injuries from tight shoes or sports can let fungi in

What Causes Fungal Nails?

A few common triggers include:

1. Athlete’s Foot Spreading to the Nails – The same fungus that causes itchy, flaky skin between your toes can move into your nails.

2. Warm, Damp Environments – Public pools, gyms, and shared showers are perfect breeding grounds.

3. Nail Injuries – Even a small crack in the nail can be an entry point.

4. Tight or Non-Breathable Footwear – These trap moisture and heat.

5. Weakened Immune System – Certain medical conditions, like diabetes, make you more prone to infections.

6. Age – Nails naturally thicken and grow slower as we get older, making them more vulnerable.

How to Spot Fungal Nails Early

The sooner you catch it, the easier it is to treat. Look out for:

• Yellow, white, or brown spots on the nail

• Thickened or brittle nails that break easily

• Nails lifting slightly from the nail bed

• An unpleasant smell (in more advanced cases)

Treatment Options

There’s no one-size-fits-all cure, and over-the-counter products rarely work on more stubborn infections. Here’s what we recommend at Peak Podiatry:

1. Podiatry Nail Debridement

We gently thin the nail and remove as much infected nail as possible. This makes treatments more effective and improves comfort.

2. Topical Antifungal Treatments

Prescription-strength solutions or medicated nail lacquers can help—especially if the infection is caught early.

3. Oral Antifungal Medication

For more severe infections, tablets prescribed by a GP can work from the inside out. These are often taken for several months.

4. Laser Therapy for Fungal Nails

A modern, non-invasive option we offer in our Galway clinic. The laser targets and destroys the fungus without harming surrounding skin or nail tissue.

5. Nail Reconstruction

If the nail is badly damaged or unsightly, we can rebuild it using a special medical resin so it looks natural while you’re undergoing treatment.

Preventing Fungal Nails from Coming Back

• Keep feet dry, especially between toes

• Wear breathable socks and change them daily

• Choose shoes that allow airflow

• Avoid sharing nail clippers or footwear

• Always wear flip-flops in public showers or pool areas

Final Thoughts

Fungal nails might be stubborn, but they’re not unbeatable. The earlier you get them checked, the easier and faster treatment will be. If you’ve noticed any changes in your nails—no matter how small—book an appointment at our Galway or Limerick clinics. We’ll assess the cause, discuss the best treatment for you, and help you get your nails back to looking and feeling healthy.