Here are some things you should know about toenail fungus. A nail fungal infection, medically known as Onychomycosis, is one of the most common foot or nail conditions. It often occurs in the big toenails and is less commonly seen on the fingernails.
Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus tends to stay local. Fungus, generally, can spread easily and may affect other parts of the body. Although, a fungus that affects the nails tends to remain on the nail or the skin immediately surrounding it.
Other Infections
If you only have one nail affected, there is a chance that it could spread and develop on the neighboring nails. As it spreads to the surrounding skin, it can cause an athlete’s foot. In some cases, the fungus can spread to the genital area and cause jock itch.
This can happen while putting on underwear. It is recommended to put socks first before putting on underwear if you have toenail fungus.
Other Risk Factors
Age is a risk factor. Older people are more likely to develop nail fungus than younger people. Adults above the age of 60 are especially susceptible. This is because as people grow, the nail becomes weak, brittle, and dry. The nails can crack easily, allowing the fungus to enter. The immune system also grows weak, making it easier for the fungus to thrive.
Getting injured and damaging the toenail can also lead to a fungal infection. When the toenail is damaged, the nail plate can separate from the nail bed. This allows room for the fungus to infect and grow. Once you damage your nail, look out for symptoms such as discoloration and thickness.
Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus
As you can see, tips for healthy feet without nail fungus can be easy to find. If you have caught nail fungus, it can be easily treated using the FDA-approved PinPointe laser, which typically only takes on treatment. Other treatments like topical solutions and oral medication are not as effective. Topical solutions have a very low cure rate. This is because the solution does not penetrate all the way through the nail bed. This is because it can lead to liver toxicity. You would need to have consistent blood tests throughout the course of taking the medication.
Our nail doctor in Newbury Park, CA recommends this treatment for toenail fungus. The PinPointe Laser treatment has the highest cure rate in the market. It has no side effects and no recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after the treatment. Also, there’s no pain.
If you have any signs of nail fungus, call us at (800) 672-0625 our Newbury Park, CA location, or visit our website for more information on our doctors at one of our over 150 locations.
