Fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) is very common, particularly in the toenails. It affects around 3% of people in the UK.
Around half of all nail problems are due to fungal nail infection. It usually affects adults, and affects more men than women. It also becomes more common as you get older.
There are several types of fungus that cause nail infections. For example, athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection of the toes, which easily spreads to the toenails. Candida is a yeast which can cause an infection of the skin around the nails, usually the fingernails.
Fungal nail infection usually looks unpleasant, but it doesn't always cause pain or other symptoms.
Nail infection can be treated and usually cured, but treatment can take several months.
Looking after your nails properly can help to keep the infection from returning.
