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Is Laser Toenail Fungus Treatment Covered By Insurance

How The Laser Treatment For The Toenail Fungus Works

Laser Treatment at OhioHealth Eliminates Toenail Fungus

Lasers are an emission of high frequency lights capable of cutting and destroying tiny atoms coming its way. The laser treatment for the toe-nail fungus also works on this basic characteristic of laser.

To treat the toenail fungus, the toes are put directly under the laser nozzle, and the laser will then hit at the nail bed where there is the fungus. This interaction will destroy the microorganism, killing it, through the heat.

The laser used for the toenail fungus treatment is the CO2 laser usually, but for the treatment of some complex grown lasers doctors prefer the YAG laser, also known as yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser.

The wavelength of this laser light is quite high because this is how it is going to kill and attack each micro-organismic cell of the fungus. The regular laser for the toenail fungus treatment comes with a 900nm to 1300nm.

This is to increase the temperature of the laser and this increased temperature will make the nail-bed hot for the fungus. It will burn the fungus at the nail bed.

Another benefit of this much higher wavelength is the sterilizing effect of heat. This sterilized nailbed is now safe and no more fungal growth can happen for the next few years.

You might wonder why we cannot have the fungus destroyed in a single session.

Well, you can but it will increase the risk of tissue destruction, so, there is no point to get into a hurry. The doctors make sure that your damaged tissues, even if they get slightly damaged during the session.

This Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus Boasts Incredible Outcomes

  • Posted On: Aug 6, 2019

Toenail fungus is incredibly common. It causes the toenail to thicken and look crumbly, discolored, and distorted. Beyond being a source of embarrassment, toenail fungus can have more serious consequences. The fungus can cause pain walking, difficulty cutting the nail, and it may even progress into a more serious infection if left untreated.

The gold standard for treating nail fungus has been prescription oral medication. But oral medication is only effective in about 60% of patients and may cause side effects to the liver. Dr. Jason Bruse, Podiatrist, at Davis Family Physicians | Ogden Clinic is one of the only foot doctors in the area offering an alternative option that he believes is far superior. Learn more about how the fungus can now be removed using laser therapy.

What Is Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is an infection of the toenails with fungus, also called onychomycosis . There are many different kinds of fungus that can cause this problem, and just about all are susceptible to laser therapy.

Onychomycosis, the growth of fungi onto the toenails. These fungi are often found on your body and usually do not cause any problems. However, in your feet, the fungus can become an huge problem. These fungi use a component of your toenails, called keratin, for its food. It is literally – feasting on your toenail tissue. Did you know, you can contract fungus from someone else too?! Just like at a nail salon or from your spouse, if you are repeatedly exposed over a period of time. This fungus infection is also the same organism that can cause jock itch or athletes foot and even feminine yeast infections. It can be very uncomfortable.

The fungus infection happens when the fungi get in through the cracks in your toenails and start to invade on the toenail tissue that is in, on, or under the nail. Fungi love a warm, dark, moist environment and often finds that in your toenail. Fungi also thrive, particularly when you are active and when you sweat inside your shoes.

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What Are The Standard Toenail Fungus Treatments

Treatment depends on the type of fungus and the severity of the infection. Your doctor may try one thing or a combination:

Oral antifungals, such as terbinafine, itraconazole, or fluconazole .

  • There are effective but may cause serious systemic side effects ranging from upset stomach and dizziness to severe skin problems and jaundice.
  • The result is seen when the nail grows back completely while the success rate is usually low in the age above 65

Laser: Unlike other remedies that provide limited relief or require multiple doses and applications over a period of weeks and months, toenail fungus laser treatment can take as little as one treatment session, with a very high efficacy rate.

  • At Prime foot & ankle specialists, we use laser toenail fungus treatment to help remove toenail fungus from our patients toes. We have seen good results that are backed up by the scientific literature.
  • Toenail Fungus & Ingrown Toenail Surgery:

Depending upon the severity, the doctor can suggest surgery which may be:

  • Temporary removal:
  • Surgery may temporarily remove the nail to apply the antifungal drug directly to the infectious site under the nail. We generally use this approach with an infected ingrown toenail or a damaged bleeding toenail. It is an excellent treatment option with excellent overall results.

  • Permanent removal:
  • Contagious Factors For Nail Fungus Can Include:

    Laser Treatment for Fungal Toenails
    • having an injured nail or nail trauma
    • repeated exposure to infected nails such as fitness clubs, public showers, swimming pools, and walking around barefoot in a hotel or locker room
    • family history of susceptibility, compromised immune system, poor health conditions, diabetes or poor circulation
    • increased age may make one more susceptible
    • wearing tight shoes, not allowing feet to breathe, perspiring more , warmer climate areas, having skin conditions such as psoriasis/eczema or athletes foot.
    • The same common type fungus that causes jock itch, yeast infections, athletes foot and ringworm can cause a nail infection.

    Although temporarily effective, many cannot take oral antifungal medications, such as Lamisil, due to side effects. A toenail fungus or wart reduction laser treatment works by shining a focused beam of light that is calibrated to a specific frequency that targets cells responsible for the infection. The laser penetrates the toenail and eliminates fungus embedded in the nail bed and nail plate. Treating all toes is recommended to eradicate fungus that has yet to show up thus preventing recurrence. Most patients need 3 or more treatments depending upon the length of time and severity of infection.

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    Cost Of Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus

    The first thing after hearing about the Laser treatment for fungus removal that comes to ones mind is that how much does laser toenail fungus removal cost. And the only thing that is not suitable for those who are not ready to pay a huge amount is the price.

    The laser toenail fungus removal cost will be around 700 Dollars. In some cases, if you are going for some extra treatments the amount may increase.

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    Can I Use Toenail Polish Or Have A Pedicure

    Yes, you can apply polish to the nail immediately after the laser treatment. However, it is important to remove all nail polish prior to your treatment. If going to a salon for a pedicure, ensure that you choose an establishment that properly sanitizes their tools to avoid additional infection or disease in or near your toenail.

    Book An Appointment At Beautiful Laser Nails

    Nail Fungus? Zap It with New Laser Treatment!

    Beautiful Laser Nails is proud to offer some of the best laser toenail fungus treatments in the Atlanta, Georgia, area. We’ve effectively removed pesky, stubborn toenail fungus for many of our patients, who’ve found it worth doing even though Medicare doesn’t cover it. If you want to learn more about how laser toenail fungus treatments work or if you’re ready to make an appointment,contact ustoday.

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    When Can I See Results

    I know you are excited to finally rid this annoying fungus, so I can tell that you start noticing improvements immediately. Because your toenails will look more alive. The itchiness will be soothed. And within the first weeks you should be noticing new healthy pink nails growing out to replace the damaged areas. But I can tell you the biggest change will be in your confidence seeing yourself finally beat this thing that has been haunting you for so long.

    What Is The Laser Toenail Fungus Procedure

    You may have tried over the counter medications to treat fungus from your local drug store with no improvement. Christina Teimouri Dpm, Podiatrist near me, one of the best Podiatrist in Pittsburgh, can write a prescription for oral medicines to take by mouth or apply to your toenails to fight the toenail fungus infection. She can also help to cure the problem with Toenail Fungus Treatment Laser. If you have fungus toenails, our Podiatrist can kill it painlessly, using a laser,-a special beam of light.

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    So What Is Kerassentials And How Does It Work Again

    Kerassentials is an extremely potent combination of oils and skin supporting vitamins that you can apply every day after you shower to give your nail bed the boost it needs.These carefully selected ingredients will give your skin the support it needs to constantly rebuild itself and stay healthy. Kerassentials is the only complete formula that maintains the health of your nails in multiple ways.

    The Last Word On Lasers

    Best Treatment for Laser Toenail Fungus Denver Colorado

    Based on current studies, Q-switched laser treatments seem to be the most promising standalone treatment option for toenail fungus removal, while others simply lack conclusive data to reliably claim effectiveness beyond the word of the doctors who advocate for their use.

    In tandem with other therapy options, laser treatments can go a long way towards helping your body recover and heal from the infection. It is always best to consult your physician before deciding on a treatment, so please do not hesitate to speak out to us at the Beaver Valley Foot Clinic.

    • https://www.youtube.com/embed/thWk81VS-qM

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    Toes Are Often Ignored Until They Are The Cause Of Discomfort Or Pain

    However, there are a number of foot problems that need to be treated prior to the pain becoming prevalent, including toenail fungus. Infected toenails can be ignored and lived with, but there is a chance of further disease or infection if a treatment is not pursued.

    Knowing that toenail fungus affects nearly 25 million people around the United States alone, our team of professional foot doctors, at A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center, set out to find the best toenail fungus treatment available. During our search, we found the Q-Clear Laser, which is a noninvasive treatment that has proven to be efficient and effective. Contact one of our A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center locations today to learn more!

    How Much Does Laser Treatment Cost

    Unfortunately, laser treatment for toenail fungus is not covered by insurance. The cost of your treatment is $600 and includes 6 treatments. The initial office visit and any follow-up visits will be charged as regular specialists office visits. Payment for laser treatment is due in full at the time of the intial treatment.

    To schedule an appointment for your toenail fungus diagnosis and to learn about laser treatment, please call our office at 850-9111. We serve patients from Raleigh, Cary and Wake Forest, NC as well as Wake County, Johnston County and surrounding areas in and around the Raleigh-Durham Area and the rest of North Carolina. Hablamos Español.

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    What Are Treatments For Toenail Fungus

    Do you need to treat your nail fungus? Maybe it doesnt hurt, and the yellow, thick nails dont bother you.

    But nail fungus doesnt go away by itself. And if you dont treat it, theres a chance it could get worse. It could spread to other nails or through your body. It could cause pain when you walk.

    There are a number of ways to take care of it, including:

    Nonprescription options. You can buy antifungal creams, gels, and nail polish at the store and online without a prescription. You might want to try one of them first if the infection doesnt look bad. Some people also swear by home remedies like menthol rub, tea tree oil, mouthwash, or snakeroot extract but studies show mixed results.

    Prescription polish and creams. Your foot doctor will likely trim your nail and file away its dead layers. They may also take a piece of your nail and send it to the lab to make sure itâs really a fungus and to find out what type it is.

    The doctor might suggest an antifungal drug that you paint on your nails. This may work on its own, or they may suggest you take it with antifungal pills.

    Prescription medications. One of several antifungal pills may help. They work, but it may take many months to do the job. They also come with side effects like nausea, vomiting, and headaches. They may cause liver damage too, so your doctor will watch you closely while you take them. Be sure to tell them about any other meds youâre taking some antifungal pills might not work well with them.

    Laser Nail Fungus Treatment

    Value Based Fungal Nail Laser Treatment by Dr. Michael Horwitz

    This procedure makes use of a powerful and targeted laser beam that destroys the fungus in the nail beds. It results in relief from toenail fungus.

    Does It Work?

    According to some of the clinical trials that have been conducted about it, YES, it does work. Many of the people who have gone for the procedure have reported healthy nail growth after the procedure.

    After treatment, patients can go back to work or go home. There is practically no downtime for the procedure. Healthy nail growth may start to be observed after the procedure has been completed.

    Is It Painful?

    There will be some degree of pain, but it is often minimal that patients report it as more of an annoying sensation than of actual pain. A patient who is afraid of the possible pain can ask their doctor to use topical anesthesia that will numb the affected area.

    Before Going In For a Procedure

    • Patients have to assess if this indeed the best option because there are other alternatives. For example, oral medication has been shown to have the same effects as laser therapy.
    • Read laser fungus removal reviews patients should get a good idea how the procedure went for other patients. This is especially necessary because this is still a new procedure.
    • Proper Screening Some patients are going to be better candidates for the procedure than others.

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    I Suspect I Have Toenail Fungus What Now

    Well, now that you know the basics on toenail fungus and how Lunula laser therapy can help you get rid of it, maybe youre ready to give it a try. Please call our office at 515 FEET or submit a form online so we can go through options to make this process safe, easy, affordable, and worthwhile for you on your journey to happy, healthy toenails!

    The Q Clear Laser For Treating Toenail Fungus

    UFAI utilizes the FDA approved Q Clear laser system to eradicate toenail fungus. This laser treatment provides the photomechanical disruption necessary to kill the fungal colonies.

    The Q Clear system is painless. Its so accurately targeted that theres no adverse effect on the tissue surrounding the nail. Its both safer and more effective than topical ointment or orally administered medicine.

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    What Types Of Treatments Are Available For Toenail Fungus

    Until recently, toenail fungus treatment had been limited to topical anti-fungal creams/nail lacquer and oral medication. With limited success and many downsides, these treatments have become secondary to the more effective laser treatments.

    The antifungal cream/lacquer has the lowest success rate, ranging from 5-12% . Unless you have extremely mild toenail fungus, topical treatments are very unlikely to effectively penetrate into, underneath, and around the affected toenail.

    Prescribed oral medications work somewhat better . Howeverand this is big, however oral antifungal medications have significant medical risks and often interreact with other prescription drugs. Oral medications should not be prescribed without consulting a primary care physician, in order to ensure safety and protection during the months you would be taking these pills.

    Side effects might include liver failure, rash, loss of taste, or change of taste , headaches, stomach discomfort, and lupus-like symptoms.

    Topical medications require daily applications for at least a year, and often longer. Even then, a lifetime of application on some level is required to prevent a recurrence. Oral medications, similarly, require several months of pills and are usually associated with recurrence at some point afterward.

    Studies show the success in clearing fungal infection through laser treatment was good enough for laser treatment to be FDA cleared and is now considered the ideal method to treat onychomycosis.

    Can The Fungus Return Or Not Go Away

    Laser Treatment for Fungal Toenails
    • The fungal infection is expected to improve with just one treatment. Clinical reports to date have been encouraging with most patients noticing significant improvement. As with all medical procedures, a 100% guarantee is not possible. In addition, since fungus is present everywhere in the environment, reinfection may occur. Dr. Penn will recommend preventative strategies to reduce the chance of reinfection. Changing socks and shoes frequently is helpful, as well as controlling perspiration if present.

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