Toenail Fungus Treatment Complications
Here are some things to think about when deciding on a nail fungus treatment.
If you have a disease like diabetes, your doctor will make sure you treat nail fungus. This illness often makes you more likely to have other problems from minor foot issues.
You may not be able to take antifungal pills because of side effects or because they donât work well with other drugs you take. If that’s the case, try a product that goes onto your nail. Your doctor will call this a topical treatment.
Be patient. Your nails may not look “normal” after treatment. It can take as long as a year to 18 months for your nail to grow out a fungus.
How Does A Nail Fungus Start
Nail fungus infection is a common dermatological disorder that begins either under the nail or in the nail itself. It is mostly caused by a dermatophyte fungus, though there are cases that it is caused by Candida yeast as well. Also called onychomycosis, the condition affects both fingernails and toenails, though it is more prevalent in toenails. Fungi thrive in warm and moist environments, which perhaps describe a lot of footwear. Nail fungus infection can also start with the same dermatophyte fungus that causes athletes foot, the Trichophyton. So when a person has athletes foot, its also likely that the fungal infection would spread to the nails.
Fungal infection gives nails an abnormal appearance. The first sign of it may be a discolored dot on the nail or the skin under the nail. There may be white or yellow streaks on the nail, a crumbling corner or tip of the nail, flaking on the nails surface, yellow spots at the bottom of the nail, and scaling under the nail. The infected nail may also be thickened or brittle, and it may detach from the nail bed. In some cases, there may also be odor coming from the infected nail.
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What Kind Of Growths Can Occur Around The Nails
A growth on the skin surrounding a nail is often a wart. Warts are common on the hands and feet. When warts develop near a nail or grow under the nail, they should be treated. Treatment can get rid of the wart, enabling you to use the finger or toe normally. Dermatologists offer a variety of treatments for warts.
Jelly-like growths called mucinous cysts can appear on the skin above the cuticle. These cysts can be painful. If allowed to grow, a cyst can damage nail or cause it to become deformed. A board-certified dermatologist can recommend the right treatment for this type of cyst.
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How Do You Get Toenail Fungus
Up to 25% of people suffer from this potentially unattractive condition. The word fungus doesnt even sound pretty. So you can bet that your toenail is not going to look pretty either when infested with fungus. For those of you with obsessive compulsive disorder , you may want to stop listening/reading at this point. For the rest of you, you should know that fungus is really everywhere. Its like bacteria in that we all having a certain amount of fungus living on our skin and on household objects, floors, showers, etc. Thats just the way it is.
See also: Virus, Germ, or Bacteria?
There are certain times, however, that fungus can actually take over and set up a bigger shop on your skin and nails. And for those of you who walk barefoot and/or sweat, fungus can certainly wreak havoc on your toenails. Also, toenail fungus is more common in diabetics because fungus thrives on sugar. So if you have diabetes, please tackle your blood sugars and get them under great control so you dont end up feeding the beast.
Do You Need The Help Of An Experienced And Caring Podiatrist Contact Our El Paso Foot Doctor Today
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If youre experiencing any type of foot pain you should speak with an experienced podiatrist as soon as possible. Please contact us online to schedule your appoinment or call one of our convenient El Paso offices directly. To reach our Sierra Tower Building podiatrist office please call 915.533.5151. You can find driving directions here. To reach our George Dieter Drive podiatry office please call 915.856.3331. Driving directions are available here.
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Home Remedies For Toenail Fungus
Trimming and thinning your nails can be a helpful toenail fungus home remedy. It allows topical medications to penetrate better. It can also relieve pain and pressure from thickened nails.
Using a urea containing cream before thinning them with a file helps soften them and makes the process easier. Be sure to sterilize trimmers, files, and other nail tools afterward. To sterilize, first clean with dish detergent, then soak in rubbing alcohol for 510 minutes and allow to air dry.
Do not try to manage toenail fungus at home if you have diabetes or circulation problems. Contact your doctor instead for your safety.
Foot Fungus: Causes And Risk Factors
A foot fungus is a fungal infection of the skin, better known as athletes foot, says Sundling. The fungus enters through cracks in the skin. Its known as athletes foot because athletes or anyone who is more active and sweats a lot is more at risk. Kids are also more at risk, because they dont tend to wear different shoes, and changing your shoes is one way to avoid foot fungus.
Foot fungus is very common. It does not mean that someone is dirty or didnt bathe, and if you have a compromised immune system, you may be more susceptible, says Sundling.
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When Should You Contact A Doctor
You should contact a doctor if you have diabetes or circulation problems and develop signs of toenail fungus. Otherwise, make an appointment with your doctor if you have tried over-the-counter treatments without success.
Toenail fungus can spread to other nails, causing damage and pain if the nails become too thick. Like many other health problems, early treatment is more effective and can help prevent complications.
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What Is Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is caused by a group of fungi known as dermophytes. This group thrives on skin and on keratin, the main component of hair and nails. The fungus gets under the nail and begins to grow, damaging the nail so it discolors, becoming white, brown, or yellow. Eventually, the nail might thicken, harden, become brittle, and even fall off. According to the American Podiatrist Medical Association, nail fungus is easy to pick up from showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools because fungi thrive in the damp, humid conditions. People with underlying health conditions like diabetes, circulatory issues, or immune-deficiency conditions are especially vulnerable. This condition can be very difficult to cure. Toenail fungus treatment often lasts for several weeks or months, but if you want to know how to get rid of toenail fungus, podiatrists have a clear strategy.
Home Remedies For Nail Fungus
It is important to understand that home remedies that you can use on your own do not include medication. Excellent in the fight against the fungus at the initial stage.
- foot baths
- herbal and vegetable lotions and compresses
- essential oils,
- alcoholic tinctures of medicinal plants
- ordinary yellow clay
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The First Signs Of A Fungal Infection Of The Foot
The current forms arise due to the fact that the disease was not immediately noticed. What should be alarming?
- If the skin between the fingers gets wet and cracks
- There is itching or redness of the skin of the foot.
- There was swelling of the skin near the nail.
- the skin is scaly
- The foot skin looks rough and sloppy with good care.
- The color of the nail has changed, spots or streaks have appeared.
- There was an unpleasant foot odor.
It is enough to notice only one of the above violations in order to take a closer look at your legs. Of course, the reason may be new or uncomfortable shoes. You should change your shoes, abandon synthetic socks. In the evening, wash your feet with laundry or baby soap, and then take a bath with sea salt or chamomile decoction. But if after two the appearance of the foot does not return to normal, you should see a doctor.
Pills For Toenail Fungus Treatment
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Oral medications, or those that come in pill form, generally work more quickly than topical medications for toenail fungus treatment. They have higher cure rates and the overall treatment time may be shorter than topical options. Pills to treat toenail fungus, however, will require a prescription. It is also important to note that improvement will continue AFTER oral therapy is stopped, and it may take 9 to 12 months for you to see full results.
The top treatments for toenail fungus are:
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Common Symptoms Of Toenail Fungus
Some common symptoms may include:
- brittle, split, cracked, ragged, or crumbling nails
- changes or distortions in shape
- detachment or lifting of the nail from the nail bed
- nail thickening, which makes nails difficult to trim
- unpleasant or slightly foul odor
- yellow, white, or brown discoloration of the nail
Toenail fungal infections are usually not painful, especially in mild cases. The infection may remain this way for years.
Pain can develop as the nail thickens and becomes damaged or if the infection is severe. The pain can make it difficult to walk or wear closed toe shoes. It is important to seek treatment for ongoing symptoms of toenail fungus to prevent these complications.
What Tests Might Be Done
Your doctor may be able to tell that you have a fungal nail infection just by looking at your toes or your fingers. But they may do some tests to be sure.
They may decide to take a sample of your nails. The clippings can be tested to see if fungus is in them.
If you do have nail fungus, you and your doctor will decide what treatment is best for you.
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How Is Toenail Fungus Treated
Toenail fungus is notoriously tricky to treat. You may need to treat the condition for several months to get rid of the fungus. Still, toenail fungus often comes back.
A dermatologist or podiatrist can explain your treatment options. If you have a mild case that doesnt bother you, your provider may recommend no treatment.
Toenail fungus treatment options include:
- Oral antifungal medication: You take prescribed medication, such terbinafine , itraconazole and fluconazole , to treat the fungi. You will need to take this medication every day for several months . Your provider may use blood tests to check for potential medication side effects. These medications can affect the liver and interact with other medications, so oral antifungals are not for everyone.
- Topical medication: You regularly apply a medication right on the nail. The medication treats the fungi over time. Topical medications are most effective when paired with oral medications.
- Laser treatments: Your provider directs a high-tech laser beam and special lights at the toenail to treat the fungus. Lasers are FDA approved for temporary increase of clear nail in nail fungus but is not a cure. Cure rates for laser treatment are lower than oral and topical mediations so they are not typically used as first line treatments for nail fungus.
- Surgery:
What Doctor Treats Fingernail And Toenail Fungus
In mild cases, yeast infections are usually treated by conventional doctors. Fungal diseases of the genital organs – urologist or gynecologist. Thrush in children – pediatrician. Dermatologist for uncomplicated skin diseases.
In difficult cases , the help of a specialist in fungal infections is needed. That is, the mycologist understands them. You can address to the mycologist. if you do not want it to be stated on the outpatient card that a fungus was found. Or you can’t go to a dermatologist.
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Are There Home Remedies For Toenail Fungus
The Internet is filled with anecdotal information on how to cure toenail fungus using home remedies. Vinegar is a commonly recommended home remedy. Some people apply various oils such as tea tree oil, coconut oil, essential oils, and oil of cedar leaf to their nails as well. The effectiveness of these home remedies is highly doubtful. Application of household bleach and hydrogen peroxide is also not recommended due to lack of evidence that these treatments work. These agents can also cause unwanted skin irritation. Thickened nails that have been affected by fungus can be difficult to trim. Using topical urea cream will soften the nail and make it easier to trim. These creams do not require a prescription.
So What Exactly Is Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is an infection of the toenails, also called onychomycosis . In reality, it can affect both your fingernails and your toenails, though is much more common in toenails.
The fungus can also spread from your nails and nail beds to the skin between your toes. This is called athletes foot, and similarly, toenail fungus can be caused by athletes foot.
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What Is Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus
If youre dealing with toenail fungus, you may experience pain and discomfort or feel embarrassed to show your toes. You might even start to feel hopeless if youre unsure how to get rid of the problem. First, know that youre not alone! Anyone can contract a fungal infection. However, those with weakened immune systems are more likely to contract an infection from toenail fungus. The good news is there is a noninvasive way to get rid of the fungus: laser nail therapy. Read on to learn about the causes of toenail fungus and the treatments for it, including laser nail therapy.
Do I Need To See A Toenail Fungus Doctor
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However, if youve tried these home remedies and youre noticing a marked increase or a lack of improvement in your symptoms, it is recommended you visit a doctor. Especially if the nail becomes painful.
If you are a person suffering from low circulation, a weakened immune system, and/or diabetes, it is also highly recommended that you skip the at-home treatments and go straight to seeing a foot fungus doctor, as you are at a higher risk of severe complications.
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Schedule An Appointment For Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus
If youre looking for the most effective toenail fungus treatment near Scottsdale, Arizona, schedule an appointment with Arizona Foot Doctors. After a careful evaluation of your foot, well suggest the right treatment plan for you. We have over 35 years of experience in podiatry and encourage you to schedule an appointment online.
Tips For Prevention Of Fungal Nails
Nail fungus causes only 50% of abnormal-appearing nails. It can be hard to tell the difference between the different causes of discolored nails . Onychomycosis is often not treated. Reasons to receive treatment include
No one knows where a specific person catches the fungus, as it is everywhere. However, since the fungus does thrive in warm moist areas , there are certain areas one should avoid or use with caution. Shower floors, locker rooms, and swimming pools are suspected of being sources of the fungus, although there are no studies proving this fact. Nail polish and acrylic nails also make the nail less “breathable” and make the nail more susceptible to fungal infection. Fungi are everywhere — in the air, the dust, and the soil. Hygienic measures such as spraying socks and footgear sound sensible, and perhaps these measures can even help a little bit. However, avoiding tight, nonbreathing shoes or steering clear of athletic facility floors may very well be the best prevention available. Daily washing of the feet and drying between the toes can help to prevent nail fungus. The fungi carried on the coats of pets, like cats and dogs, don’t often cause nail fungus. Wearing white socks does not help.
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Podiatrists Foot & Ankle Surgeons Located In Arlington Tx & Mansfield Tx
If youre embarrassed by discolored, flaking toenails, youre not alone. Its estimated that a toenail fungus affects about 20% of all Americans. The doctors at Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers offer conventional medical care for toenail fungus. However, the team realizes that a fungal infection can be hard to eliminate, so they also offer treatment with the HyperBlue PLUS® laser. If youre concerned about toenail fungus, schedule an appointment online or call one of the two locations in Arlington or Mansfield, Texas.
- Request Appointment