What Is Nail Fungus?
As a podiatrist, I have heard nail fungus described in many different ways, and none of them are nice: Gross, icky, thick, brittle, deformed, disfigured, discolored nails are one of the most common foot issues that we see.
In most cases, it is caused by a fungal infection of the nails. Studies have estimated that up to 20-25% of people are affected by fungal nail infections ailment, and up to 35% of diabetics.
Fortunately, in most cases this infection doesn’t cause any other health issues, and remains confined to the toes and even fingernails.
For those that have this infection, the main complaint is cosmetic (most likely due to an ingrown toenail). In some cases, however, the infected nails can lead to chronic pain due to nail thickening, or even chronic ingrown nails.
Do Home Remedies Work?
Over the years, there have been many treatments attempted for this with most of them having rather dismal results. There are more over-the-counter topical treatments for this then I care to count. There’s even more “home remedies.” Unfortunately, these types of treatments rarely help. We don’t see much improvement in appearance, and they don’t cure the infection.
Over-the-counter medication for the treatment of athlete’s foot has also been shown to have little effect.
Treating this infection with oral anti-fungal medication has been shown to have better results than with topical treatments. But, overall, the cure rates with this medication have been disappointing.
A One-Two Punch Treatment That Works!
At Anderson Podiatry Center we treat toenail (and fingernail!) fungus with two very effective treatments that, when combined, very often produce results that patients are extremely happy with:
- Laser Treatment A recent advancement in nail fungus treatment is laser therapy. We have been treating nail fungus with the PinPointe laser system for many years and have been very pleased with the results! It is the only laser that is specifically designed to treat nail fungus, vs other multi-use lasers, so it is often extremely effective. It involves direct laser therapy to the nails and directs heat underneath the nail (where the fungus lives) to a temperature that destroys the fungus, but does not burn or harm your toe.For most people, this procedure takes 3-4 treatments, which are spaced out every three months or so. It can take up to a year to fully grow out the infected nail and replace it with healthy nail.
- Excusive Topical Treatment We also now use a newly developed, prescription-grade topical treatment that is showing via studies to likely be the most effective topical treatment for fungal nails available. When combined with the laser, we see excellent results.It quickly reduces the yellow discoloration, thickness and brittleness of the nail, so it looks much better while the nail is growing out. Patients love it!
A Final Step
We even add a third (recommended) step: using an anti-fungal nail polish that helps prevent the nail fungus from returning. We want our patients to have clear nails that last.
Don’t Wear Socks To The Beach
So, if you are currently wearing socks to the beach or keeping your hands in your pockets because you are embarrassed by your nails, this treatment is for you. It’s time to ditch the socks and let your little piggy’s and your hands out to play again.
We know nail fungus is embarrassing and frustrating, but the only way to get rid of it is to seek appropriate, effective treatment. With our one-two punch, clear nails can quickly be yours!
Please don’t wait any longer to schedule an appointment. Come visit your podiatrist in Fort Collins or Broomfield for further consultation.
Call us today, and mention this blog for a free phone consult*.
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To learn more about how we treat nail fungus, click here.
*Free consult: Complete new patient appointment and exam not included.
