Fungal nail infection is a slowly developing invasion by fungal known as dermatophytes, which thrive in moist warm skin conditions and digests skin. The fungus attacks the nail bed and causes the nail to become thick and to separate from the nail bed. Often found as a secondary infection from Athletes foot (tinea pedis), this is also a dermatophyte and it is usually found interdigital in the web spaces of the toes. Infection can easily spread from skin to nail, nail to nail and nail to the skin. Early signs to be aware of are:
While athletes Foot is likely to respond to topical anti-fungal creams, however, fungal nails never go away of their own accord. The longer the fungus is left, the more damage is done and the more difficult they become to treat. If the fungus is caught in the early stages, weekly application of terbinafineanti-fungal nail lacquer, along with across regular reduction of the thickened nail plate, will probably be the best course of treatment. If the base of the nail is infected then systematic medication (prescribed by your GP) is required, unfortunately, there is no quick cure, fungal nails can take anything from six to eighteen months to resolve and outgrow.
Fungal nails can be confused with other conditions such as psoriasis or a damaged nail, The Laurels Clinic have a professional connection with the Microbiology Department at St. James Teaching Hospital, Leeds, where they can offer a quick diagnosis by taking samples of nail clippings and skin for microscopy examination and culture to determine the presence of fungal spores. Results are then sent to your GP where a full assessment will be given to ascertain if you are suitable for any oral or topical medications that may warrant prescribing.
Elaine is able to offer the Lacuna method to deliver a more stable topical solution to the nails by micro drilling to treat the infection. This relatively new treatment is offering positive antifungal The treatment involves drilling minute hols treat the nail and spraying topical terbinafine across the nail plate then we request you do the same Department and comply with treatment for the best possible result. Terbinafine is an antifungal drug and creates a flora imbalance in the cell wall causing the fungi to die. Treatment costs vary dependant upon the number of infected nails to be treated but start costs are £…. treatment is usually painless and requires no detriment or downtime.
In addition, Elaine is able to offer MLS Laser Therapy which is a completely safe non-invasive and painless method of treatment. The laser supplies light energy directly to your cells which encourages your body’s own healing process. An initial consultation is required and a full medical history to determine suitability.
At The Laurels Clinic Leeds, our aim is to provide every patient with the best possible service and treatment. To meet the needs of our clients and to exceed expectations we provide high-quality services including the following:
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