Nail fungus (onychomycosis) is the most common disease of the toenails. It affects a large proportion of the general population, causing discomfort and unsightly nails. Most at risk are the elderly, diabetics, people with poor circulation, those wearing occlusive footwear, people with damaged nails, and individuals who suffer from tinea (athletes foot).
Untreated, the infection can engulf the entire affected nail, causing it to become dis-coloured, thickened, and very difficult to cut. The appearance of the nail can be embarrassing, causing distress for many sufferers.
Moreover, the fungus can easily spread between nails, leading to poor foot health, hygiene, and increasing the risk of serious foot problems, for example, ingrown toenails and ulcers.
