Why a fungal toenail is risky in diabetes, and how EDFC, Surat treats it with safe nail care, antifungal medicines and nail surgery when needed.
A thick, yellow or crumbling toenail may look like a cosmetic problem, but in a person with diabetes it can lead to injury, ingrown nails and infection. In this video, Elegance Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic (EDFC), Surat explains fungal toenail treatment for the diabetic foot, including when nail surgery is needed, under the guidance of Dr. Ashutosh Shah.
What Is a Fungal Toenail?
A fungal toenail infection (onychomycosis) makes the nail thick, discoloured, brittle and sometimes lifted from the nail bed. It is more common in people with diabetes because of reduced blood flow, a weaker immune response, and feet that stay warm and moist in closed shoes. It often spreads slowly from one nail to others if left untreated.
Why It Matters in Diabetes
- A thick nail presses on the skin underneath and can cause a hidden ulcer.
- Sharp, broken nail edges can cut the neighbouring toe.
- Cracks around the nail let bacteria in, leading to infection.
- Reduced feeling means these problems may not be noticed early.
Fungal Toenail Treatment at EDFC
- Nail care: Safe trimming and thinning of thick nails by a trained team.
- Medicines: Antifungal treatment applied to the nail or taken by mouth, chosen after checking the patient's overall health.
- Nail surgery: When the nail is badly damaged, painful or infected, part or all of it may be removed under local anaesthesia so a healthier nail can grow.
- Prevention: Advice on footwear, socks and foot hygiene to stop the infection returning.
Learn more about fungal nail, thick nails, ingrown toenail and medical pedicure.
quiz Frequently Asked Questions
This video is general education, not a diagnosis. If you have a diabetic foot wound, please have it assessed in person. Send a photo on WhatsApp or book a consultation.
