If you’re in the process of researching about your toenail fungal infection there are some common terms that you’ll probably come across frequently. To help you understand more about your toenail fungus we’ve put together a short glossary that you can refer to as learn about your symptoms and treatment options.

Chiropodist

A healthcare professional that diagnoses and treats people with foot, ankle or lower limb conditions.

Contagious

A disease or condition capable of being transmitted by direct or indirect contact.

Cross Infection

This happens when more than one of your toes becomes infected through the condition spreading; toenails may appear healthy even though microorganisms are present.

Debridement

Thinning or removal of part of the affected nail to allow treatment to take place

Discolouration

A toenail fungal infection causes your nails to turn a white-yellow or yellow-brown color

Fingernail infection

Also susceptible to a fungal infection, but it’s not as common.

Fungus infection

Fungal nail infections are caused by microscopic organisms called fungi that can survive without sunlight .

Home Remedies

Natural treatments often tried at home that have no proven evidence of success, such as lavender, tea tree or orange oils or concoctions that often include vinegar, baking soda and garlic.

Lamisil™

One of the most widely prescribed medicine for the treatment of toenail fungus; may cause liver damage and other side effects if not carefully monitored.

Nail Bed

The skin beneath the nail plate.

Nail Culture

Propagation under laboratory conditions of a nail sample to identify the type of infection and so determine the best treatment.

Nail Plate

The hard part of the nail that is made of keratin protein.

Onychomycosis

The formal, scientific name for a toenail fungal infection.

Oral Medications

These come in the form of a pill that is swallowed. The active ingredients enter the bloodstream and attack the fungus causing the toenail fungal infection.

Pathogen

An infectious agent that causes disease or infection like toenail fungus.

Penlac™

A commonly used topical antifungal medication that is painted onto the infected nail; may cause side effects.

Podiatrist

Essentially the same as a chiropodist but a more modern term.

Topical Treatments

These include oils, lacquers or creams that are applied directly to the infected area of the nail.

Warm Humid Environments

Places such as swimming pools, changing rooms, or spas that are warm and moist are where toenail fungus lives and thrives

If you’d like to meet with a qualified podiatrist at Beauchamp Foot Care to learn more about your toenail fungal infection, please contact us for an initial consultation. We want to help you have beautiful, healthy feet again.

 

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All information on this website is for general guidance only and is not intended as a substitute for the personal medical advice of health care professionals or your own doctor.