NHS LOTHIAN | PODIATRY SERVICE
Fungal Nails
Fungal nail infections are very common. The nail may turn yellow, white or brown, become thicker, or crumble at the edges.
In most cases they do not cause pain and do not need treatment.
What are fungal nails?
Fungal nail infections are very common. The nail may turn yellow, white or brown, become thicker, or crumble at the edges.
In most cases they do not cause pain and do not need treatment.
If your nail is not bothering you, it is fine to leave it alone. If you want to treat it, your pharmacy is the best place to start — no appointment needed.
NHS Podiatry does not treat fungal nail infections.
Are you at higher risk?
If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, follow the same advice below. If your nail is causing any skin damage or you are unsure, see when to contact your podiatry department below.
What you can do at home
Treatment:
Visit your pharmacist and ask for an antifungal nail lacquer. This is painted directly onto the nail and is the most effective over-the-counter option. Creams work better on the surrounding skin than on the nail itself.
Nails grow slowly, so you may need to use the lacquer for several months before you see a clear improvement. Follow the instructions on the packaging and stick with it.
Gently file the surface of the nail before each application — this helps the lacquer soak in. Use a disposable file, or clean your file after each use to avoid spreading the infection.
Footwear and Hygiene:
- Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes
- Change your socks daily
- Wear breathable footwear where possible
- Check there is a full thumb’s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe
Stop it spreading
- Do not share nail clippers, files, scissors or towels
- Wear flip-flops in communal showers, changing rooms and pool areas
- Avoid wearing other people’s shoes
When to contact your podiatry department
Fungal nails that are not causing pain or skin breakdown do not need medical attention. Contact your podiatry department if:
- the skin around the nail becomes red, hot or swollen
- there is fluid or pus leaking from the nail
- the nail is pressing into or breaking the surrounding skin
Need more support?
If you cannot manage treatment yourself and have no one to help, a private podiatrist can provide nail care. Always check they are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) at www.hcpc-uk.org.
Affordable local nail care services may also be available — your GP surgery or local council can advise.
Self-Referral Form
CONTACT INFORMATION
NHS Lothian Podiatry
Mon-Thu: 8:30am-4pm
Fri: 8am-3:30pm
Telephone: (0131) 536 1627
ABOUT US
Podiatrists are allied healthcare professionals trained to help prevent, diagnose, and treat problems affecting your feet and lower limbs.
Podiatry’s primary aim is to improve the mobility, independence, and quality of life for their patients.
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