Toenail Fungus

A toenail fungus will get under the surface of the nail where it takes hold and may even spread to other toenails. Left untreated, the infection may make it difficult to walk and work. The thicker toenails are hard to trim and make it painful to wear shoes.

Fungal nail is contagious, and you are vulnerable in public areas like swimming pools, showers, spas and locker rooms. People with diabetes or who suffer from circulatory problems or immune deficiency are prone to toenail fungus.

  • Toenail fungus causes many unpleasant symptoms including:

    • Change in toenail appearance, texture and color
    • Nail thickening
    • Unpleasant odor
    • Debris noticeable under the nail plate
    • White marks on the nail plate

  • At Caring Podiatry, we will start by taking a culture from the infected nail to determine exactly what type of fungus is present and this will dictate the best personalized treatment plan. The problem is the infection goes deep within the nail into the nail bed. Topical Medications have to be applied twice a day for 6-8 months. Oral Medications increases your success to around but are metabolized in the liver and blood work monitoring is necessary. The Q-Clear™ Laser the newest treatment has all the success of the oral medications without any side effects. Currently we have been employing conjoined therapy to treat onychomycosis utilizing the topical, Oral and laser together and seeing a synergistic response.

  • Of course, the best “treatment” is to avoid contracting a fungal infection in the first place! One simple way to reduce your risk is by simply washing your feet with warm water and soap every day and drying your feet completely. Other preventive measures include:

    • Keep feet dry (fungi love moist, dark places). This may mean changing your socks multiple times throughout the day if your feet get sweaty or you tend to perspire excessively.
    • Never wear socks for more than one day. Choose ones made of synthetic fibers designed to wick moisture away from your skin.
    • Don’t walk barefoot in public places. Fungal infections are spread by direct contact. Always wear flip-flops or shower shoes at community pools, showers, and changing areas.
    • If you enjoy professional pedicures, make sure the salon you use employs proper sanitizing procedures for its foot baths and pedicure tools.