Toenail fungus can be recognized in many ways. Toenail fungus is so contagious. It is a good idea to be on the lookout for any signs that the condition has developed. It’s best to catch toenail fungus and seek treatment in the early stages. Then any treatment you use for the fungus will be more effective. Additionally, while recognizing toenail fungus signs early into their development you have the opportunity to treat the fungus. This can prevent irreversible damage that toenail fungus may sometimes cause. While the fungus is still just as treatable after major damage has occurred, if the fungus is recognized before major cosmetic damage has occurred then you will be able to recover without your nails ever being obviously infected with something.
How to recognize Toenail Fungus?
The first step in recognizing toenail fungus is to know the signs of a budding fungal infection. When fungus infects the toenails, it starts causing a few characteristic changes in the nail’s color and texture. The most common change in the nail’s appearance is the formation of white spots or lines on the nail. This is usually the first sign of toenail fungus infection. After this, the nail fungus can start to cause brittleness, cracking, and thickening of the nail. Some of these symptoms may only be cosmetic and may not cause much harm. Others may interfere with daily activities. Symptoms such as thickening and hardening of the nails may cause extreme pain and discomfort when wearing shoes or simply clipping toenails. Our doctors in Indianapolis, IN highly recommend seeking out professional help when struggling with nail fungus infection.
You may also refer to a blog previously posted that explains toenail fungus in detail.
Treatment options
Podiatrists are experts at recognizing toenail fungus, so if you have any concerns about the condition forming they are the best professionals to consult.
A very common nail fungus treatment for toenail fungus is a topical medication, especially when the fungal infection is relatively new. These creams and solutions are applied daily to the nail to try and eliminate fungus under the nail. These medications have the benefit of lower price points and little to no side effects. They are quite ineffective against the fungus though. Some topical treatments have less than a 5% cure rate after lengthy daily applications.
The best podiatric treatment available for toenail fungus is the PinPointe laser, which is FDA approved to cure toenail fungus and typically requires only one treatment to be effective. This laser also has no side effects or downtime. Whenever you are able to recognize toenail fungus, this laser is the best next step because it doesn’t require multiple treatments or months of application like other lasers and oral/topical medications. To schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for the PinPointe laser treatment, give us a call at 1-(800) 672-0625 or visit our website for more information.
