Antifungal

Fungal infections on the nail are a common problem suffered by millions of people around the globe --- particularly in areas that are warm, humid, and wet.

Fungi are small microorganisms that thrive in moist and warm environments. You can find them anywhere --- in the ground, on plants, in your home, and even on your body. Fungal infections on the nails are caused by an overgrowth of local or invasive fungi in the area. Fungal infections on the nail are usually treated with Curanail. But how does Curanail work? Read on to find out.

What it’s like to have a nail fungal infection

There are different types of nail fungal infections but almost all of them share the same characteristics. Common signs of nail fungal infections include:

• Brittle nail
• Bad odour or discharge from the infected nail
• Nail that’s lifted from the nail bed
• Thickened nail

Nail fungal infections can affect a part of the nail, the entire nail, or several nails.

Say goodbye to nail fungal infections with Curanail

Curanail is an effective antifungal nail lacquer that kills the majority of fungi that cause nail fungal infections. A clinically proven treatment, Curanail contains amorolfine as its active ingredient.

How to use Curanail

Curanail is applied to the infected nail like nail varnish. You only need to use it once a week or as directed by your doctor. You should continue using Curanail until the infection has fully healed. It may take up to twelve months for your infected nail to heal completely.

How does Curanail Work?

Amorolfine, the anti-fungal ingredient of Curanail, prevents the fungi from producing a chemical called ergosterol. This chemical is an important component of the fungi’s cell membranes. Without this, the cells become more prone to leakage which eventually kills the fungi. Because nails are tough and can take a lot of time to grow back as healthy tissue, treatment with Curanail may last up to 12 months.

Below is an example of how a typical Curanail treatment progresses:

Month 1 to Month 3

If used as directed by your GP, the amorolfine in Curanail will start penetrating the nail until it reaches the nail bed where the root of infection usually is. It will then start killing the fungi causing the infection.

Month 3 to Month 6

Treatment of the infection is ongoing and you should start seeing your healthy nail grow back. Continue using Curanail until a new, fully healthy nail replaces the infected one.

Month 6 to Month 9

You should see significant improvement on your nails. By this time, the majority of the infected nail should be growing out. You should see fewer symptoms of nail fungal infections like thickening and discolouration at this point.

Month 9 to Month 12

By this time, all of the infected nails should have been replaced by a fully healthy, fungi-free nail.

Curanail treatment takes this long because its progress depends on how fast or slow your nail growth is. Typically, toenails grow fully within 9-12 months while fingernails take around 6 months.

Is Curanail effective against nail fungal infections?

Yes! In fact, this antifungal medication has a very high success rate despite the time it takes to fully eliminate your infection. Clinical studies show that Curanail is successful at clearing 75% of toenail infections in six months. For fingernails, it’s effectiveness is even higher at 85%.

Express Pharmacy stock Curanail at an affordable price. You can buy Curanail here.

Curanail is a good choice of treatment for nail fungal infections if:

• You are over 18 years old
• Only have a mild fungal infection
• Your infection only affects a maximum of two nails

Those with severe nail infections or those suffering an infection on more than two nails are discouraged from using Curanail. Don’t use this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Fungi are single-celled or multicellular organisms. They are found almost everywhere! And most of the time, these organisms are too small to see without using a microscope. Fungi thrive outdoors in plants and soil. They can also live indoors on various surfaces. Fungi also live inside the body and on your skin. There are millions of fungi species and so far, we have only identified a few hundred that can make us sick.

What are the causes of fungal infections?

There are several types of fungi that can cause infections or mycosis on your hair, skin, and nails. These infections can spread from one person to another, from animals to humans, or to a person from a contaminated surface. Other types of fungal infections may also come from an overgrowth of fungi that naturally exist on or in your body. A classic example of this is candida or yeast infections.

Fungal infections are usually caused by an overgrowth of a naturally-occurring species of fungi in or on your body or by invasive fungi species. Fungi thrive in warm and moist environments. You increase your chances of developing an infection if you:

• Have skin folds which rub against each other. This is particularly common if you are overweight.
• Wear tight shoes or clothing that is not breathable.

You are also more at risk of catching fungal infections if you:

• Are suffering from diabetes.
• Are pregnant.
• Have a compromised immune system
• Have been under antibiotic treatment.

Common types of fungal infections and their causes

There are several types of fungal infections that affect different parts of your body. Below, we will give the most common ones. We will also discuss their causes and what treatments are available for you.

Athletes Foot

Medically known as tinea pedis, athletes foot is a fungal infection on your foot. This type of fungal infection is commonly found in hot and humid climates. People who don’t change their socks or wear tight shoes are most likely to develop this infection.

Causes

Athletes foot is commonly caused by the fungi Trichophyton rubrum which is commonly found on the dead tissues of your skin, toenails, and hair.

Symptoms

The common symptoms of athletes foot are:

• Burning feeling on the skin
• Itching
• Broken down skin
• Red or softened skin
• Blisters
• Scaly, cracking or peeling feet

Jock Itch

Also known as tinea cruris, jock itch is a type of fungal infection commonly found on your inner thighs, buttocks, and genitals. Like most fungal infections, jock itch is also more common in areas that are warm and wet. Mildly contagious, this fungal infection can spread to others through direct or indirect contact.

Causes

Jock itch is caused by a fungus called tinea. This type of fungus loves warm and moist areas.

Symptoms

Jock itch is usually characterized by:

• Peeling, cracking, or flaking skin
• Redness or burning on your thigh or groin
• Red and circular rash with raised edges.
• Itching or chafing in your groin area

Ringworm

Another common type of fungal infection is ringworm --- named after its characteristic ring-shaped rash. Ringworm is contagious and can spread through direct contact or indirectly through clothing and furniture.

Causes

Despite the name, ringworm is not actually caused by a worm. Instead, it’s caused by fungi that thrives in humidity and warm areas.

Symptoms

Ringworm is characterized by the following symptoms:

• Red, circular rash that is scaly.
• Overlapping patches of red rings
• The outer part of the rash may be raised and worm-like in appearance while the inner area of the sore appears normal

Yeast Infections

Also known as cutaneous candidiasis, yeast infections commonly appear in your armpits and groin area. In infants, this type of fungal infection can cause diaper rash. It can also spread to your nails, mouth, and vagina. Yeast infections are not contagious.

Causes

Yeast infections are usually caused by a type of fungus called candida. This fungus is naturally present in the body. Infection only occurs if it grows too much.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of yeast infections include:

• Pimple-like bumps
• Rash
• Sores with clear fluid discharge
• Burning and itching

How to treat fungal infections

Most fungal infections are treated at home using over the counter treatments. Most of these antifungal treatments are topical, meaning you put them directly onto your skin. They can be available as lotions, creams, medicated powders and shampoos.

If your fungal infection covers a wide area, you may need to take antifungal tablets instead. Your GP should be able to prescribe the right treatment for you or you can shop online at Express Pharmacy today.

Fungi are single-celled or multicellular organisms. Common examples of fungi in the environment are yeasts, moulds, and even mushrooms! Along with various bacteria, fungi are present in and on the body.

There are many different types of fungal infection. In this article, we will look in close detail as to what Onychomycosis is and what is the best medication for a nail fungal infection.

Understanding Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis, also known as tinea unguium, is a type of fungal infection that affects your nails. The infection begins when a fungus gets in through the cuts in your skin or cracks in your nails. Remember that fungi love warm and moist environments — making your nails an ideal place for growth.

Onychomycosis is more common in your toenails that in your fingernails. This is because your toenails are often confined in your shoes where it’s moist and warm.

What does a nail fungal infection look like?

Nail fungal infections vary from one person to another. Below are the common signs of Onychomycosis:

• Thickened nail
• Brittle nail
• Any form of distortion in the nail that may lift it from the nail bed
• Bad smell coming from the infected nail

Onychomycosis may affect only a small portion of the nail or the whole of it. In some cases, the infection may spread to several nails.

What are the different kinds of nail fungal infections?

There are at least four common types of nail fungal infections. Let’s look at them in detail below:

1. Candida Infection

This type of nail fungal infection is caused by Candida yeasts. Candida infections are more common in the fingernails and among people who soak their hands in water frequently. This fungal infection usually begins around the cuticle. As the fungi grow, your nail will become red, tender, and swollen. Untreated, the infection may cause the nail to lift from the nail bed or fall off.

2. White Superficial Infection

This type of fungal infection is common in toenails. It is often characterized by white spots which may become flaky and pitted. Untreated, these white spots will eventually cover the entire nail causing it to become rough and soft. Toenails affected by white superficial infection are prone to crumble.

3. Distal Subungual Infection

This fungal nail infection is probably the most common one. The distal subungual infection affects both your toenails and fingernails. It begins under the nail and is characterized by white and yellow streaks across the nail. It may also cause the outer edges of your nail to become jagged.

4. Proximal Subungual Infection

Like above, this type of nail fungal infection develops in your toenails and fingernails. The infection begins at the base of your nail — characterized by yellow spots. It then spreads upwards. Proximal subungual infection is rare and often affects people who have weakened immune systems.

If you want to learn more about fungal infections, here’s our fungal infections guide.

Who can develop nail fungal infections?

Most causes of fungal nail infections are preventable. However, your risks of developing any of the infections we’ve discussed above increases when you:

• Are more than 65 years old
• Wear artificial nails
• Have nail injury or cuts around the nail
• Have a compromised immune system
• Wear closed-toe shoes often
• Have diabetes
• Have moist fingers or toes for extended periods

What is the best medication for a nail fungal infection?

The best way to know what type of nail fungal infection you are dealing with is to have a doctor examine your nails. Remember that other diseases like psoriasis can mimic a nail fungal infection. Knowing the type of infection is the best way to get proper treatment.

Some of the common treatment for nail fungal infections include:

Taking oral anti-fungal drugs

Compared to topical drugs, oral anti-fungal medications clear nail fungal infections quicker. Most of these treatments work by helping your nails grow infection-free — replacing the infected part over time. It may take up to four months to replace the damaged nail and get rid of the infection. The downside of anti-fungal drugs is that they tend to have side effects ranging from a skin rash to liver damage.

Using Curanail

Curanail is a topical fungal medication that’s clinically proven to clear nail fungal infections within six months. It works by preventing the fungi from producing ergosterol — a key component of their cellular membrane — essentially, “killing” it.

Curanail is applied directly on the infected nail like a nail lacquer or varnish. It then slowly penetrates the nail and on to the nail bed where the root of the infection is. You can buy Curanail online from Express Pharmacy.

Fungal infections are incredibly common; it is estimated that around a billion people will suffer from some form of nail, hair, or skin fungal infection in their lives. That equates to around one in every six people!

Fungi usually seek to attack moist areas of the body, or areas that do not get enough air, meaning it’s no surprise to see just how common fungal infections are. If you suspect that you are suffering from a fungal infection, or you are curious to find out more, this article dives deeper to further help with understanding what exactly a fungal infection is; including the causes, symptoms, types of fungal infections, and treatment.

What Is a Fungal Infection?

When fungi invade the human body, the immune system is on hand to battle it, and when this is the case, there’s nothing to worry about. But a fungal infection comes about when fungi ‘burrow’ their way into a human and overwhelm the immune system.

What Causes a Fungal Infection?

There are many causes of a fungal infection, and these will differ depending on the individual. Most commonly, fungal infections start through inhaling the fungal spores in the air or having them land on an area of your body.

In terms of nail fungal infections, these are commonly caused by a fungus called dermatophyte, but can also be caused by moulds and yeast.

Symptoms Of a Fungal Infection

There are many different types of fungal infections, all with varying symptoms. There are some common symptoms, though, and below we’ll look at a couple of the trademark fungal infection symptoms that you may be dealing with:

• Unreasonable itching
• Red spots on the skin which may begin to crack or peel

If you have one of the above symptoms, you might be dealing with a fungal infection.

Types Of Fungal Infections

Let’s get into the specifics of fungal infections and the ones that most people deal with.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is sometimes called Tinea Pedis, and it generally occurs when people confine themselves to sweaty shoes with little to no ventilation. No one is immune from athlete’s foot, and it can get awful when the summer months roll around, and the air is humid. Some of the symptoms include:

• Irritation of the affected area
• Peeling skin around the affected area
• Itching
• Blisters

So, what do you do when you have athlete’s foot or better still, how do you prevent yourself from it? If you already have it or are worried that you are infected, you can see a doctor who will scrape off the infected area and observe it under a microscope. Sometimes, it might not even be a fungal infection at all.

If it is confirmed that you have athlete’s foot, there are various ointments, sprays, and powders that you can use. You might also require some drugs, and apart from that, it is advised that you should take care of your foot and keep it dry at all times.

Ringworm

Ringworm is an infection that can affect human skin. It should be noted that it is not caused by a worm, but rather a fungus. It creates a lesion that, when seen on the skin, looks like a ring; this is the inspiration for the name. It’s not a surprise that of all fungal infections, Ringworm is the easiest to identify due to its signature appearance on the skin.

Other symptoms to look out for when dealing with Ringworm include patchy and scaly skin. The condition is contagious, and those who have it need to be very careful around other people until treated.

So, how do you battle Ringworm? Again, a trip to the doctor is necessary, and they will inspect a skin sample to determine the severity of the situation. You can treat Ringworm with ointments and creams, but if you are dealing with a severe case or you’re dealing with Ringworm on the scalp, prescription medication might be necessary. As for prevention, general hygiene is usually sufficient to treat it.

Yeast Infection

Yeast infections are more common amongst women and usually occur in and around the vagina.

A vaginal yeast infection is caused by Candida fungi, which sets off on a mission to disturb the delicate yeast/bacteria balance in the vagina. It can be caused by stress, unhealthy eating habits, antibiotics, and much more. Symptoms include:

• Painful intercourse
• Swelling around the area of the vagina
• Watery or uncommon discharge

Yeast infections are easy to diagnose, and in mild cases, easy to treat. Over the counter prescription drugs are usually good enough and in more severe cases, your doctor might need to opt for more complex measures. However, prevention is better than cure and preventing this type of yeast infection starts with a balanced and healthy diet. Personal hygiene also doesn’t hurt, and even wearing more loose-fitting clothes helps tremendously.

Fungal Nail Infection

As the name implies, fungal nail infections generally occur in, or under, the nails. They are often caused by an overgrowth of fungi already present on the skin. They can be passed from person to person and can even be contracted from something as simple as having a manicure or pedicure.

People with diabetes, nail injuries, or weakened immune systems are more prone to fungal nail infections than others. Treatment usually constitutes oral medication prescribed by pharmacies. You can also employ the use of antifungal nail cream to battle the infection.

How Can I Treat a Fungal Infection?

Fast and effective antifungal treatment is available to purchase online at Express Pharmacy. One of such means is Curanail; our best-seller for battling nail infections. Curanail is a nail lacquer that contains amorolfine, which is an active agent necessary to cure infections. Additionally, the easy application makes it appealing to many people as it can be used like a simple nail varnish.

Conclusion

Fungal infections are a pain to deal with, however, are incredibly easy to treat. With numerous antifungal treatments and remedies available, you can easily deal with an infection if contracted.

For more information regarding effective fungal infection treatment, get in touch with us today on 0208 123 0703 or browse or our antifungal treatments.

Fungal skin infections are a common occurrence, and many people will experience some variation of a fungal infection during their lifetime. They are caused by many different kinds of fungi, including yeasts.[1]

A fungal infection can refer to a variety of different conditions, from athlete’s foot to ringworm. Nail infections are also common issues that can be found on both hands and feet, as a result of the presence of one fungus or another. They most commonly start at the edge of the nail.[2]

A quick search online will show you plenty of common household ingredients claiming to be the miracle cure for fungal infection. But what are these so-called cures, and do they actually work?

Garlic

Garlic is one of the best-known home remedies for fungal infection, considered to have antibiotic qualities. In particular, the major biologically active component of garlic, Allicin, exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties.

However, there is no definitive medical answer as to whether garlic is an effective cure for fungal infections, and results from studies have been mixed. One piece of research conducted in 2006 found garlic to be a promising component in reversing the effects of fungus growth.[3] However, another study found the effects of short-term doses of garlic to be inconclusive.[4]

Cranberry Juice

It’s commonly stated that cranberry juice can help to alleviate a urinary tract infection, or UTI, thanks to the presence of nutrients believed to stop fungal bacteria from sticking to the mucus membranes.

However, recent research has found that the main benefit of drinking lots of cranberry juice when suffering with an infection is simply staying hydrated. In this sense, cranberry juice specifically isn’t really any more effective than drinking plenty of water. A Yale University study looked at 185 women over the course of the year and found that cranberries had no significant effect on bacteria in urine.[5] Staying hydrated dilutes the urine, making it seem as though the infection is passing.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil is another ingredient frequently hailed as a cure for fungal infections. There is some truth to this, as one study found that coconut oil can help to tackle certain strains of yeast, particularly those present in vaginal infections, due to the medium chain fatty acids in the oil itself.[6]

As such, coconut oil is an established anti-fungal. However, research into the area is limited and further studies are needed in order to determine the possible long- and short-term effectiveness of using coconut oil to treat yeast infections.

Your best bet? Anti-fungal medication

While some home remedies may go some way to relieving symptoms of a fungal infection, none have been shown to have the consistent, proven effectiveness of clinically-tested anti-fungal medication.

Anti-fungal medication is the first and most important aspect of treatment advised to anyone suffering with an infection of this kind.[7] Fungal issues of the nail, in particular, do not clear up by themselves, and can require a long-term course of specifically tailored condition in order to clear up the infected area fully.[8]

The NHS advises simple lifestyle changes such as keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing clean socks every day, wearing flipflops in public showers and getting rid of old shoes.[9]

These are habits that are advised to be carried out alongside the necessary medication, not instead of it.

You can find effective and safe anti-fungal treatment at Express Pharmacy. Curanail is designed to treat mild fungal infections in the fingernails and toenails. If you have any further queries, contact the Express Pharmacy team today by calling 0208 123 07 03 or by using our discreet Live Chat service.

[1] Bupa UK. Fungal Skin Infections. 2018.

[2] NHS UK. Fungal Nail Infections. 2017.

[3] Shams-Ghahfaroki, M. et al. In vitro antifungal activities of Allium cepa, Allium sativum and ketoconazole against some pathogenic yeasts and dermatophytes. Fitoterapia. 2006.

[4] Watson, C. J. Allium sativum (garlic) and candidiasis. Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care Academic Centre, The University of Melbourne. 2013.

[5] Juthani-Mehta, M, PhD. et al. Effect of Cranberry Capsules on Bacteriuria Plus Pyuria Among Older Women in Nursing Homes. Jama. 2016.

[6] Ogbolu, DO. et al. In vitro antimicrobial properties of coconut oil on Candida species in Ibadan, Nigeria. US National Library of Medicine. 2007.

[7] NICE. Fungal skin infection – body and groin. 2018.

[8] British Association of Dermatologists. Fungal infections of the nails. 2017.

[9] NHS UK. Fungal Nail Infections. 2017.

Fungal infections may not be the most pleasant thing to think about, but understanding the different types of fungal infections is important for effective treatment.

Fungus is not an inherently bad thing. Some of our favourite ingredients are classed as fungi, including mushrooms. What’s more, many different types of fungi make their home on our bodies and, in most cases, don’t cause any issues.

However, sometimes a fungus can change, and this can lead to an infection. There are many different kinds of fungal infections, all of which can affect different parts of the body, and in different ways.

We’re going to take a closer look at some of the most common fungal infections, in order to give you a clearer understanding of how to recognise and treat these conditions in the best way.

4 Common Types of Fungal Infection

Thrush

Thrush is a particularly common fungal infection and is usually either an oral or genital condition. In fact, up to three-quarters of all women will have at least one bout of vaginal thrush in their lives.[1] But the condition isn’t exclusive to women – it can also be contracted by men.

Thrush is usually harmless but can be uncomfortable and resilient. Symptoms of thrush include:

• White discharge from the genitalia
• Irritation and itchiness
• Burning and stinging when having sex or using the toilet

Like most fungal infections, thrush is best treated with effective antifungal medication. This can be an oral tablet, a tablet inserted into the vagina or a cream to relieve irritation. Recurring thrush may be caused by a wider issue, and advice should be sought from your GP.

Athlete’s foot

Between 15-25% of people are likely to experience athlete’s foot at any one time.[2] As the name suggests, the infection affects feet, usually appearing between the toes but also on the soles or side of the feet. If left untreated, it can spread and lead to fungal nail infections.

Athlete’s foot can cause raw, tender, flaking or split skin. It can also cause fluid-filled blisters to appear. The condition can be treated with creams, sprays and powders. You can also help to prevent it occurring by drying your feet after you wash them, wearing clean socks every day and avoiding walking around barefoot – particularly in public changing rooms and showers.

Ringworm

Ringworm is often the name given to a generic fungal infection, as it occurs when the tinea corporis fungus infects the skin. When it occurs in the feet, it can cause athlete’s foot; when it occurs in the groin, it can cause another infection called jock itch. It is also common on the scalp or the beard.

Although specific figures are hard to gather, ringworm is a frequent problem in most countries, particularly those with less access to effective hygiene.[3] The main symptom of the condition is a red or silver rash which can be itchy, swollen or dry. Antifungal medication in the form of a cream, gel or spray is often prescribed.

Fungal nail infections

Fungal nail infections occur when a fungus infects the top, body or bed of the nail. They are more common in toenails but can occur in fingernails too.[4] This is because the fungus thrives in warm and moist environments, and our feet spend much more time encased in shoes and socks which can get hot.

When infection occurs, the nail can become thicker, drier and begin to crumble. It may also become more yellow in tone and can even come off altogether. Fungal nail infections can take a long time to heal completely, but the best way to treat it effectively is with proven antifungal treatment. Lacquered medications like Curanail can be applied directly to the nail to trap and tackle the infection.

Find effective treatment for fungal nail infections right here at Express Pharmacy, and get it delivered swiftly and discreetly to your home. You can also contact our pharmacists today by calling 0208 123 07 03 or by using our online live chat system.

[1] Patient UK. Vaginal Thrush [Accessed December 2018]

[2] Crawford, F., Athlete’s Foot [online] BMJ: 2009 [Accessed December 2018]

[3] World Health Organisation, Water-Related Diseases, Ringworm (Tinea) [Accessed December 2018]

[4] NHS UK. Fungal Nail Infections [Accessed December 2018]