Fungal Nail Infection

General Health

At SwiftMedi, we understand how frustrating fungal nail infections can be - from yellow, thickened nails to brittleness, discomfort, and embarrassment. Left untreated, they can spread or worsen over time. The right antifungal treatment can stop the infection in its tracks, restore healthy nail growth, and help you feel confident again.

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About Fungal Nail Infections

Overview


Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) are one of the most common nail problems in the UK - yet they often develop quietly before becoming a persistent, embarrassing issue. They occur when fungi (usually dermatophytes) infect the nail bed, leading to thickened, brittle, or discoloured nails that can spread over time if left untreated.

While fungal nail infections rarely cause pain in the early stages, they can be stubborn and slow to clear without treatment. Over time, nails may become distorted, crumbly, or detach from the nail bed - affecting confidence, footwear comfort, and even daily activities.

The good news? Effective prescription-strength treatments are available. At SwiftMedi, our UK-registered prescribers can assess your symptoms through a secure online consultation and recommend proven antifungal solutions such as Amorolfine Nail Lacquer (Curanail) - clinically shown to clear infection and restore healthy nail growth when used consistently.


Symptoms


Common signs of a fungal nail infection include:

  • White, yellow, or brown discolouration of the nail
  • Thickened or brittle nails that may crumble at the edges
  • Nails that become distorted or separate from the nail bed
  • A dull or rough appearance instead of the usual shine
  • Occasionally, mild discomfort or an unpleasant odour


In severe or long-standing cases, several nails may be affected on one or both feet.


Diagnosis


Fungal nail infections are often diagnosed based on appearance alone, but sometimes a doctor or prescriber may recommend a nail clipping test to confirm the type of fungus before treatment.
Early diagnosis makes treatment more effective - the sooner you start, the quicker healthy nail regrowth can begin.


Treatments


Clearing a fungal nail infection requires patience and consistency, as nails grow slowly and infection sits deep within the nail bed. At SwiftMedi, your prescriber may recommend:

  • Amorolfine 5% Nail Lacquer (generic)
  • Curanail 5% Nail Lacquer (brand)


Both contain amorolfine hydrochloride, an antifungal medicine that kills the fungus and prevents it from spreading. The lacquer is applied directly to the affected nails once or twice a week, forming a protective barrier that penetrates deeply over time.

Treatment may take 6 months for fingernails or up to 12 months for toenails, but visible improvement usually begins after a few weeks as new, healthy nail grows through.

Oral Antifungal Medication (in certain cases)


For more severe or widespread infections, your GP may consider oral antifungal tablets. However, most mild to moderate infections respond well to topical lacquers when used correctly.

Additional Care
Regular filing, trimming, and keeping feet dry and clean all help improve outcomes. Avoid sharing nail clippers, socks, or footwear during treatment.


Prevention


Even after successful treatment, fungal nail infections can return - especially if fungal spores linger on shoes or skin. To reduce the risk of recurrence:

  • Keep feet clean and dry, especially between the toes.
  • Change socks daily and avoid tight, non-breathable shoes.
  • Use antifungal foot powder or spray if you’re prone to athlete’s foot.
  • Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas like gyms or pools.


Disinfect nail tools and avoid nail salons with poor hygiene.



Misconceptions


“It’s just cosmetic.”
Not true - fungal nail infections can spread and worsen over time, eventually affecting nail structure and comfort.

“Cutting the nail short will make it go away.”
Trimming helps manage symptoms, but it won’t cure the infection. Antifungal treatment is still needed.

“If one nail is infected, the others are safe.”
Fungal spores can easily spread to nearby nails, especially in warm, moist conditions.

“It’s only caused by poor hygiene.”
While hygiene plays a role, factors like tight shoes, damp environments, diabetes, and athlete’s foot increase risk even with good hygiene.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is a fungal nail infection and what causes it?

    A fungal nail infection happens when fungi enter the nail or surrounding skin, causing thickening, discoloration and brittleness. It often starts after damage to the nail or from athlete’s foot. Treatments such as amorolfine lacquer help clear the infection by stopping fungal growth.

  • What are the early signs of a fungal nail infection?

    Early signs include small white or yellow patches, mild thickening or a change in nail texture. The nail can gradually become brittle or crumbly. Starting treatment early with a product like Curanail improves the chance of clearing the infection fully.

  • Are fungal nail infections contagious?

    Yes, they can spread through shared showers, towels, footwear or direct contact. Treating the infected nail with amorolfine reduces the risk of passing it to others or spreading it to your own nails. Keeping feet dry and clean also helps.

  • What treatments work best for fungal nail infections?

    Topical antifungal lacquers like amorolfine or Curanail work well for mild to moderate infections. They penetrate the nail to destroy fungi over time. Severe infections may need prescription tablets. Early and consistent treatment offers the best results.

  • How long does it take to clear a fungal nail infection?

    Clearing a fungal nail infection takes time. Fingernails may take around 6 months and toenails 9-12 months to fully grow out healthy. Amorolfine or Curanail must be used consistently each week for the best results.

  • When should I see a doctor about a fungal nail infection?

    See a clinician if several nails are affected, symptoms are severe, the nail is painful, or if you have diabetes or circulation problems. They may recommend prescription tablets if topical treatments like Curanail aren’t enough.

  • Why do fungal nail infections keep coming back?

    Recurrence is common if the nail doesn’t fully grow out or if athlete’s foot keeps returning. Tight footwear, sweaty socks and shared wet areas can also cause reinfection. Regular use of amorolfine and good foot hygiene help prevent recurrence.

  • Can fungal nail infections spread to other nails or skin?

    Yes. Fungi can move from one nail to another or spread to the skin, causing athlete’s foot. Using Curanail consistently reduces spread and helps keep surrounding nails protected. Keeping feet dry and avoiding shared towels also lowers the risk.

  • Do fungal nail infections go away on their own?

    They rarely clear without treatment. In most cases the infection slowly worsens, making the nail thicker and harder to treat. Starting a weekly antifungal lacquer such as amorolfine gives the best chance of clearing the infection fully.

  • Can I wear nail polish while treating a fungal nail infection?

    It’s best to avoid cosmetic nail polish during treatment, as it blocks antifungal lacquers like Curanail from penetrating the nail. If you want to use polish occasionally, allow several days after applying your antifungal and remove it carefully before the next dose.

  • What increases the risk of getting a fungal nail infection?

    Risks include athlete’s foot, wearing tight shoes, sweaty feet, damaged nails, smoking, psoriasis and reduced circulation. Using amorolfine early when symptoms first appear may help prevent worsening.

  • Can I treat fungal nail infections at home without medicine?

    Keeping feet dry, trimming nails, disinfecting shoes and treating athlete’s foot can help but usually aren’t enough to clear an established infection. Medicines like Curanail are needed to kill the fungus and allow a healthy nail to grow.

  • Can shoes or sweat make a fungal nail infection worse?

    Yes. Warm, sweaty environments help fungi grow. Switching to breathable footwear, changing socks daily and using amorolfine regularly can help the nail recover and prevent reinfection.

  • Is it normal for the nail to look worse before it looks better?

    Often yes. As the damaged part grows out, the nail can appear discoloured or crumbly before a clearer nail gradually replaces it. Consistent weekly application of Curanail helps ensure the new nail grows healthy and infection-free.

  • How can I prevent fungal nail infections from returning?

    Keep feet dry, rotate footwear, wear breathable socks, treat athlete’s foot early and avoid walking barefoot in communal areas. Continuing amorolfine until the nail fully grows out reduces relapse.