Fungal Toenail Treatment

Hands with gloves on using nail clippers to cut toenail

Effective Fungal Toenail Treatment for Healthier, Clearer Nails

Revitalize your feet and toenails by removing fungi. Just like bacteria and viruses can grow on our skin, fungi can grow on our toes. Wondering if you have a case of foot fungus? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Thompson.

Fungal toenails, also known as onychomycosis, are a common condition that can cause discomfort, discoloration, and deformity of the toenails. These toenail infections are typically caused by:

  • Dermatophytes: The most common fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments like locker rooms and swimming pools.

  • Yeasts and Molds: These can also infect nails, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

  • Direct Contact: Sharing nail clippers, shoes, or walking barefoot in public places can spread the fungus.

  • Recognizing the signs of a fungal toenail infection is the first step towards effective treatment. Common symptoms include:

    • Discoloration: Nails may turn white, yellow, brown, or even black.

    • Thickening: Infected nails often become thicker and more difficult to trim.

    • Brittleness: Nails can become brittle, crumbly, ragged or split.

    • Distortion: The shape of the nail may change, becoming distorted or separated from the nail bed.

    • Infection: Paronychia is an infection of the tissue adjacent to a nail. It's caused by injury, irritation, or cuticle damage. The adjacent tissue is painful, red, and swollen. There may be pus.

    • Odor: A foul smell may emanate from the infected nail.

    • Pain: In severe cases, the infection can cause pain and discomfort, especially when wearing shoes, or if the nail has become ingrown.

  • At Ace Feet Podiatry, we offer comprehensive treatment options to help you regain healthy, beautiful nails.

    • Topical Medications: Antifungal creams, ointments, and lacquers applied directly to the nail can be effective, particularly in mild cases.

    • Oral Medications: Prescription antifungal pills are often necessary for more severe infections, offering a higher cure rate but requiring close monitoring for potential side effects.

    • Laser Therapy: A non-invasive treatment that uses focused laser light to penetrate the nail and eliminate the fungus without damaging the surrounding tissue. At Ace Feet, we use the Remy, a Class IV, FDA-cleared, dual wave 810nm/980nm laser therapy.

    • Nail Debridement: The process of trimming and thinning the infected nail to reduce pain and improve the effectiveness of topical treatments.

    • Surgical Removal: In persistent or severe cases, partial or complete removal of the infected nail may be necessary to allow a new, healthy nail to grow in its place.

    • Preventive Measures: Educating patients on proper foot hygiene, keeping feet dry, and avoiding exposure to fungal environments to prevent recurrence.

  • Dr. Thompson will thoroughly examine your feet. If appropriate, a microscopic and/or dermoscopic examination of the affected toenail or skin will be performed. Your condition and all treatment options will be clearly explained. Together, you and the doctor will decide on the best treatment option based on your medical history, activity level, footwear, and lifestyle.

    We allocate ample time for this visit to ensure treatment can begin on the same day if you choose.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

My experience with Dr. Shannon has been nothing but positive. I struggled with nail fungus for quite a long time and contacted Dr. Shannon for a consultation. I followed her recommendations and treatment and the end result has been excellent. My toenails are back to normal and Dr Shannon is a joy to work with. She is always on time and never kept me waiting. She is kind and gentle and awesome to work with!

B.C.