Nail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects the nails, most commonly the toenails. Fungal toenail infections occur when fungi (such as dermatophytes, yeast, or molds) penetrate the nail bed through small cracks or cuts in the nail or surrounding skin.
Symptoms of nail fungus can include:
- Thickened nails
- Discoloration
- Brittle or crumbly nails
- Nails may change shape, becoming distorted or misshapen
- The nail may lift or separate from the nail bed, leading to a gap underneath the nail.
- Nail fungus can cause pain or discomfort, especially if left untreated and the infection becomes severe.
Nail fungus is persistent and can be challenging to treat. It thrives in warm, moist environments, making the feet susceptible, especially wearing shoes and socks.
Treatment options for nail fungus include:
- Topical antifungal medications are applied directly to the affected nails and surrounding skin.
- Oral antifungal medications are more effective than topical treatments but can have side effects and interactions with other medications.
- Toenail fungus laser therapy is a recent treatment option that targets and destroys the fungus using concentrated beams of light.
- Surgical nail removal in severe cases where the infection is particularly stubborn or painful, surgical removal of the infected nail may be necessary.
Consult our Houston foot doctor at DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your condition. Additionally, preventive measures such as keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing breathable socks and shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas can help reduce the risk of nail fungus infection.
Laser fungal nail treatment is a new approach to treating fungal nail infections (onychomycosis). It involves using a laser to target and destroy the fungus that has infected the nails.
Here is how it works:
- Preparation: Before the treatment, your nails will be cleaned and trimmed to remove the infected nail. It helps the laser energy to penetrate more effectively.
- Laser Treatment: A specially designed laser device emits concentrated beams of light onto the infected nails. The laser energy penetrates the nail and reaches the fungus living underneath it. The heat generated by the laser destroys the fungal cells while leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed.
- Duration and Sessions: The duration of the treatment session varies depending on the severity of the infection and the number of nails affected. Multiple treatment sessions are required, spaced several weeks apart for optimal results.
- Post-Treatment Care: After each session, you may be advised to apply antifungal cream or take oral antifungal medication to combat the infection. Take precautions to prevent reinfection, such as keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing breathable socks and shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places.
Laser therapy for nail fungus is a safe and effective treatment option for many people. However, its effectiveness varies from person to person, so discuss the potential risks, benefits, and costs with your podiatrists before proceeding with this treatment.
