How long does it take to cure nail fungus?

Treating nail fungus generally takes 6 to 12 months, the time needed for the healthy nail to grow back completely. The duration depends on the severity of the infection and the chosen treatment. Regular follow-up with your podiatrist allows the treatment to be adjusted as needed.

Is nail fungus contagious?

Yes, nail fungus is caused by fungi that can be transmitted through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. It is important not to share your nail clippers, to wear sandals in public showers and to treat the infection promptly to prevent spreading.

Can you put nail polish on a fungal nail?

It is not recommended to put cosmetic nail polish on a nail affected by fungus, as it traps moisture and prevents topical treatment from penetrating. Your podiatrist may recommend an antifungal medicated nail lacquer as an alternative.

Nail Fungus: Treatment | Podiatrist Laval

What Is Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of the nail caused primarily by dermatophytes, yeasts or moulds. It most often affects the toenails due to the warm, moist environment created by footwear.

At our Laval clinic, we observe that nail fungus affects approximately one in ten people and becomes more common with age. Although it is often considered a cosmetic issue, untreated nail fungus can lead to complications, particularly in people with diabetes.

Symptoms of Nail Fungus

The characteristic signs of nail fungus include:

Colour change: the nail turns yellow, brown, greenish or chalky white
Thickening: the nail progressively thickens and becomes difficult to trim
Fragility: the nail crumbles, cracks or separates from the nail bed
Deformation: the nail plate becomes misshapen and may become painful in shoes
Odour: an unpleasant smell may accompany advanced infections

Causes and Risk Factors

How Do You Contract Nail Fungus?

The fungi responsible for nail fungus thrive in warm, moist environments. Contamination most commonly occurs in:

Sports centre locker rooms and showers
Public pools and saunas
Non-sterilized pedicure salons

Predisposing Factors

Age: reduced blood circulation and slower nail growth increase the risk
Diabetes: poorly controlled blood sugar promotes fungal infections
Athlete's foot: this fungal skin infection can spread to the nails
Excessive sweating: a moist environment encourages fungal growth
Nail trauma: an injured nail is more vulnerable to infections

Diagnosis

At our Laval clinic, the diagnosis of nail fungus includes:

Clinical examination: visual assessment of the nail and surrounding tissues
Mycological sampling: a nail sample is analyzed in a laboratory to identify the type of fungus involved
Differential diagnosis: ruling out nail psoriasis, lichen planus or chronic trauma

Treatments Offered at Our Clinic

Nail Debridement

Debridement involves reducing the thickness of the affected nail to allow better penetration of topical treatments. This procedure is performed in the clinic using sterile instruments.

Topical Antifungal Treatments

Applying antifungal solutions or lacquers directly to the nail is the first-line treatment for mild to moderate fungal infections. Consistency in application is essential for treatment success.

Laser Treatment

The antifungal laser targets fungi through the nail plate without damaging healthy tissue. This option is particularly effective for infections resistant to topical treatments.

Prevention

Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes
Wear sandals in locker rooms and public showers
Change your socks daily and choose moisture-wicking fibres
Regularly disinfect your shoes with an antifungal spray
Never share your nail care instruments
Promptly treat any athlete's foot infection to prevent spreading

This content is for informational purposes and does not replace a professional consultation.

Nail Fungus: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Symptoms

Treatments