Ask Dr Chris: Fungal nail infection, ganglion

Ask Dr Chris Steele: Fungal nail inefction, ganglion | Expert advice | Ask the doctor

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Every week we partner up with our sister magazine, Woman, to bring you expert health advice from This Morning's Dr Chris Steele MBE, health journalist of the year. This week he answers your questions about a fungal nail infection and a swelling called a ganglion.

The problem: What's afoot?

I'd love to wear open-toe shoes when spring arrives but for months I've had several unsightly, brittle, yellow toenails, which crumble when I cut them. What's wrong?

Dr Chris' advice

I think you have a fungal infection of your toenails, so talk to your GP to get a diagnosis and treatment. You may be given a tablet, such as terbinafine (Lamisil), to take once a day for up to six months, as toenails grow very slowly. You must stick to this long-term treatment to see results.

The problem: What is this strange swelling?

I have a swelling on the back of my wrist, which is firm but painless. What is it exactly, and what can I do to get rid of it?

Dr Chris' advice

It sounds like a ganglion - basically, a fluid-filled cyst. They're very common and tend to be painless. They're usually an innocent outgrowth from a joint or tendon in the area. Your ganglion can be removed by simple surgery if it's embarrassing or painful. Otherwise, just leave it alone.

- See more questions answered by Dr Chris

You can email Dr Chris Steele at goodtoknow or womanhealth@ipcmedia.com, marking the subject 'Dr Chris'. Sorry, but Dr Chris can't reply to letters personally. For further advice, go to Dr Chris' website at www.thefamilygp.com