Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects approximately 36 million people in the U.S., particularly in humid areas like Louisiana. The fungus thrives in dark, moist environments, such as sweaty, enclosed shoes, making it more prevalent in regions with muggy climates.
While it might seem like a cosmetic issue, it can have significant impacts on one's self-esteem. Untreated fungal nail infections can worsen, making treatment more difficult and increasing the risk of complications.
A toenail fungal infection, or onychomycosis, is not always related to hygiene. The fungi responsible, known as dermatophytes, thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes. These fungal spores are everywhere—in your shoes, carpets, and even the air. Fungal nail infections can affect anyone, and some people are more susceptible than others.
The symptoms you’ll experience depend on the type and severity of the infection:
These symptoms can significantly affect your nail's appearance, making it essential to recognize and address them early.
Diagnosing toenail fungus typically involves a clinical examination of the affected area by a healthcare professional. Common signs, such as thickening and discoloration, are usually enough to confirm a fungal nail infection. In some cases, additional tests like blood tests or nail clippings may be taken to identify the specific type of fungus and rule out other conditions.
While home remedies aren't typically recommended by podiatrists, some people try them with varying degrees of success. Popular options include:
Treating with topical medications or antifungal creams can be challenging. Many topical treatments, like Jublia and Ketoconazole cream, are designed to penetrate the nail and reach the fungus, but their effectiveness can be limited.
Oral toenail fungus treatments are an effective option for fungal toenails, but they have their own drawbacks, most notably, potential liver damage and drug interactions. In years past, Ketoconazole (Nizoral) and Griseofulvin (GrisPeg) were the two main oral medications for toenail fungus. These medications were effective but came with a higher risk of allergic reactions or liver and kidney damage. In addition, you’ll likely have to take these for up to a year.
At Gulf South Foot and Ankle, we offer a better solution…
Laser treatment is a cutting-edge option for treating toenail fungus. This procedure uses an FDA-approved pulsed light wave that penetrates the nail to target the fungus directly. The laser energy heats and destroys the fungal particles without affecting the surrounding tissues. The procedure is painless, has no side effects, and typically takes about 30 minutes.
While laser treatment won’t clear the nail instantly, it kills the fungus, and healthy nail growth will appear over the next 6-12 months.
While laser treatment may cost more than other options, it is one of the most effective methods for eliminating toenail fungus. Stop just “pushing through” the pain and unsightlyness of your toenail fungus. Schedule with our expert team today for a safe, lasting, and effective treatment.
Does laser treatment sound too good to be true? Check out these before and after photos of toenail fungus treated by our revolutionary lasers.
Preventing infected nails and avoiding the recurrence of toenail fungus requires consistent care and attention to hygiene. Here are some practical tips to keep your nails healthy:
By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of developing or re-infecting your nails with toenail fungus.
Are you tired of hiding your feet because of infected nails? Toenail fungus can be painful, embarrassing, and persistent, but there's hope. Let us help you regain your confidence with our personalized treatment options.
Don't wait any longer—schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards reclaiming your healthy feet.