Is nail fungus cosmetic? Nail fungus is a condition that causes unsightly changes in the color, texture, and other appearance of the nail. This can affect the nails of both the toes and the fingers. It can be a very uncomfortable condition to live with. Because of this, patients with toenail fungus often want to get the treatment done immediately. Often, patients with toenail fungus may wonder if the condition is purely cosmetic. Or if there are medical risks associated with the fungus as well.

Cosmetic Appearance

Most of the discomfort that comes from nail fungus comes because of the change in the appearance of the nail. Fungal infections of the nails almost always cause a cosmetic change in the color of the nail. With mild nail fungus, this can come in the form of white discoloration on the nail. As fungus becomes more severe, the discoloration can become yellow, brown, or black and take up the entire surface of the nail.

Other common cosmetic changes in the nail’s appearance include the nail becoming brittle, cracked, thickened, and lifted from the nail bed. While these changes in the nail’s appearance are indicative of a more serious nail fungus infection, they are still cosmetic changes. 

Most patients who have nail fungus only ever experience cosmetic symptoms of the infection. This is a good thing because it means that the fungus likely won’t cause any physical symptoms. However, some patients do experience a cheese-like odor or sometimes even painful because of a nail fungus infection. In this case, the nail fungus would no longer be purely cosmetic.

how did I get nail fungus

Laser Treatment

Whether nail fungus is cosmetic or not, if you would like to get it treated you should seek out a consultation with a licensed podiatrist. They will be able to diagnose your fungus and provide effective care. The best treatment available for fungus is the FDA-approved PinPointe laser, which typically only takes one treatment to cure the fungus.

Our nail doctor in Houston, TX recommends the laser treatment. It has the highest cure rate in the market. Also, it has no side effects and no recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after treatment. Also, it is not painful. To schedule a consultation with a podiatrist specialized in the PinPointe laser treatment, give us a call at 1-(800) 672-0625 or visit our website for more information.