Fungal nail infection, or onychomycosis, is a common condition affecting the nail plate. While the internet is full of so-called “life hacks” like treating nail fungus with iodine, the truth is that such methods are largely ineffective. Onychomycosis is not just a cosmetic issue – it often requires professional and, in many cases, systemic treatment.
How does a podologist address this condition?
The first step a podologist takes is collecting a nail sample (scraping) to send for laboratory analysis. This test confirms the presence of a fungal infection and identifies the specific type of fungus. Since fungal organisms vary significantly, determining the exact strain is crucial for selecting the most effective treatment. The test also reveals which medications the fungus is resistant to.
