Who To See About Toenail Fungus

A Pharmacist Can Help With Fungal Nail Infections

Speak to a pharmacist if the look of your nail bothers you or it’s painful.

They may suggest:

• antifungal nail cream it can take up to 12 months to cure the infection and does not always work
• nail-softening cream it’s used for 2 weeks to soften the nail so the infected part can be scraped off

The infection is cured when you see healthy nail growing back at the base.

Toenail Fungus Hard As Cement Kill Nail Fungus With Alcohol

Does Nail Fungus Grow Out Sporanox Dose For Nail Fungus What Kind Of Doctor To Go To For Toenail Fungus. Home Remedies For Foot Toe Fungus Laser To Treat Nail Fungus. Fungus On Skin Precautions Nail Fungus Treatment Acidity. Will Bandaids Kill Fungus On Skin Toe Fungus Looks Like Nail Is Not Attached.

Foot Fungus Bkisters Mold At Home And Toenail Fungus. Home Remedies For Toe And Foot Fungus Nail Fungus Orc That Penetrates Nail Why Does Nail Fungus Turn Black. Bleach For Fungus On Skin Does Tea Tree Oil Treat Toenail Fungus.

Donât Miss: How To Stop Ingrown Nails

How Are Fungal Nail Infections Treated

Treatment isnt always necessarydepending on the severity of your conditionbut it is recommended simply because it might be contagious. Not only can you spread the condition to someone else, but depending on the type of fungus, can also spread to infect your other toes.

For mild cases of toenail fungus, your doctor will likely start with conservative treatments. These may include prescription anti-fungal oral medications or topical solutions. For patients who exhibit severe symptomsor for those who do not respond to medicationthe doctor may recommend nail avulsion surgery. During this procedure, the nail plate is removed and chemical treatments are introduced to treat the infection.

Contact your podiatrist for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Also Check: How To Take Off Dip Powder Nails

Podiatrist Toenail Fungus Specialist

Toenail fungus is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. When the tiny organisms take hold, the nail often becomes darker in color, debris may collect beneath the nail plate, and white marks may appear on the nail plate. The infection is capable of spreading to other toenails, the skin, or even the fingernails. The resulting fungal nails are thicker and difficult to trim making walking painful when wearing shoes. Toe fungus removal can be performed by a podiatrist.

If your condition is mild and not disturbing you, you may not require treatment. If your nail fungus is painful and has caused thickened nails, self-care steps and meds may help. Yet, regardless of whether treatment is effective, nail fungus regularly returns.

Nail fungus is called onychomycosis .

When fungus infects the zones of the skin of your feet, its called athletes foot .

With fungal nail infections, the main cause is typically

Certain behaviors and preexisting conditions that can affect your risk of nail fungus include:

There are many overlaps between nail fungus and nail cancer. Since its easy to mistake cancer of the nail for a fungal infection, you should see a doctor immediately to get a definitive diagnosis.

See a doctor immediately if you suspect you have toenail fungus or subungual melanoma.

If you wait too long for diagnosis and treatment, theres a risk of the cancer spreading throughout the bodys organs and lymph nodes.

Signs Of A Toenail Fungal Infection

• Discolored toenails. Nails can be brown, black, white, or yellow. Usually a small area changes color at first and it slowly spreads.
• Thickened toenails. Over time, the nail becomes thick, material builds up under the nail, and the nail can develop an irregular shape, grooves, or a crumbling appearance.
• Affects one or more toenails. The fungus may spread to other toenails. The big toe is most commonly affected. The fungus can also occur in fingernails.
• Starts at the end or side of the toenail. The infection gradually spreads toward the cuticle.
• Usually painless unless there are skin changes or injury to the nail bed or if shoes press on the thick nail.
• Athletes foot. Some people will also have skin fungus on their feet, which looks like red, peeling skin between the toes.

Dr. Rx

Patients may say that they are embarrassed to go to the pool or the beach, or they avoid wearing sandals. They describe their nails as thick, crumbling, and abnormally colored. One patient described their nails as looking like an animals horn, which is pretty accurate. But they are so thrilled when they see results from treatment! Dr. Anne Jacobsen

You May Like: Petsmart Cost For Nail Trim

What Are The Treatments For Black Toenail

Fungal infections of the toes are relatively treatable at home when caught early. Over-the-counter ointments, creams, and polishes are usually effective. Severe cases may require a prescription antifungal treatment.

If a black toenail is caused by an injury, the resulting spot from broken blood vessels will disappear once your nail grows out.

Black toenail caused by trauma from an injury usually resolves on its own without treatment. However, if your toenail grows out and it still appears black, then the symptoms might be related to another underlying cause.

Toenail discoloration related to diabetes and other health conditions requires treatment for the underlying causes.

Podiatrist For Nail Fungus

Podiatrist for nail fungus? What do podiatrists do is a common question patients ask? Not a lot of people know that podiatrists exist. Some people say that they trim toenails and calluses, but thats not all. Podiatry has a broader scope than that. Podiatrists are foot doctors that treat everything below the knee. Patients they see on a regular basis are those who have diabetes, neuropathy, or have poor circulation. They also treat patients who have high arches, flat feet, and foot or ankle pain. Podiatrists deal with issues such as ankle fractures, ingrown toenails, hammertoes, bunions, and toenail fungus.

Also Check: Treatment For Severe Toenail Fungus

If You Observe Certain Nail Changes

For prompt, effective treatment of your toe nail condition , you should see a podiatrist as soon as possible, especially if you notice certain changes to your nails. These abnormalities may include toenail deformities, discoloration, or thickening. By seeing a podiatrist as soon as possible, you can reduce the risk that youll suffer permanent damage to your toenails.

If you are in need of a foot doctor in Sugar Land, TX , visit Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists or call 281-242-3338.

What Should I Ask My Healthcare Provider About Toenail Fungus

If you have toenail fungus, you may find it helpful to ask your provider:

• What type of infection do I have?
• Do you recommend I treat it? Why or why not?
• How long will I need treatment?
• What steps can I take to stop it from coming back?
• Should I be aware of any potentially serious complications or treatment side effects?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Toenail fungus is an incredibly common infection that can be difficult to treat. The condition usually isnt painful, but it may make you feel self-conscious about how your foot looks. If it bothers you, talk to your provider about your treatment options. A trained specialist can provide guidance on whats most likely to address your concerns while protecting your overall health.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 12/17/2020.

References

Read Also: How Long Is Cosmetology School For Nails

Toenail Fungus Treatment In Pearland & Houston Tx

The area of the toes is generally warm and damp, unfortunately making it a great area for fungus to grow. If left untreated, the fungal infection can spread, which is why its so important to get professional help early on and look into your treatment options.

Fungal infections occur due to fungus getting through the cracks of the toes or cuts in your skin. Common signs that you may have a fungal infection include thicker than normal toenails, oddly shaped toenails, discoloration, a yellowish hue to the nail, and separation of the nail and nail bed. Fungal infections can affect anyone but are most common among men, those with diabetes or athletes foot, and smokers. The risk of having toenail fungus also increases as you age, if another family member has it, and if you have a weaker immune system.

If You Arent Sure Of The Diagnosis

If a podiatrist has never diagnosed you with nail fungus before, you may be incorrectly self-diagnosing your condition. There are many foot and nail conditions that can mimic the abnormalities associated with nail fungus, such as onycholysis, a hematoma under the nail, psoriasis, and paronychia. By scheduling an appointment with a foot and ankle specialist, you can be sure that youre getting the right treatment for your specific condition.

Read Also: What Helps To Strengthen Nails

Living With A Nail Fungal Infection

If you have a nail fungal infection, some things can help:

• Keep your nails cut short and file down any thick areas.
• Dont use the same nail trimmer and file on healthy nails and infected nails. If you have your nails professionally manicured, bring your own nail file and trimmer from home.
• Wear waterproof gloves for wet work . Wear 100% cotton gloves for dry work.
• Wear socks made of wicking material . This pulls moisture away from the skin. Change your socks when they are damp from sweat or if your feet get wet. Put on clean, dry socks every day. Put over-the-counter antifungal foot powder inside your socks to keep your feet dry.
• Wear shoes with good support and a wide toe area. Dont wear pointed shoes that press your toes together.
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas, such as locker rooms.

You May Like: What Causes Ridges In Your Nails

Am I At Risk For Fungal Toenails

If youre wondering whether youre a candidate for toenail fungus, were here to answer your question. Just like all infections and diseases, certain people tend to be more at risk when it comes to contracting fungal nail infections.

Youre at higher risk of contracting fungal nail infections if you:

• Are over 65 years of age
• Wear artificial nails / regularly get pedicures
• Have a disease that causes poor circulation
• Have a nail injury
• Swim in public swimming pools often
• Have a skin injury around your nail
• Wear close-toed shoes often

You May Like: Medical Pedicure Covered By Insurance

How Can I Find A Top

You can use Zocdoc to find Toenail Fungus doctors who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, theyre invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdocs guidelines.

When To See A Doctor About Toenail Fungus

The patient should contact the doctor if there is no abatement in symptoms after applying over-the-counter medications and preventative care measures.

A doctor should also be seen if the symptoms worsen.

• The toe swells, turns red, remains hotter than the rest of the body, or becomes tender.
• The infected toe and the surrounding area begins to leak pus.
• The area surrounding the infected toe develops red streaks.
• A fever of 100.4 or higher develops.
• The infection begins spreading to the skin.
• The pain level becomes intolerable.

You May Like: How To Grow Long Strong Nails

Can A Black Toenail Cause Complications

Toenail fungus thats left untreated can spread throughout your feet and other parts of your body. It can also cause permanent nail damage.

Complications can also arise from melanoma in the toenail thats mistaken for trauma-induced black toenail. Its important to see your doctor if you notice any black spots that might be spreading throughout the nail, or if they dont go away despite your toenail growing out.

Read Also: How To Clean Nails With Fungus

What Happens If I Dont Treat Toenail Fungus

According to Dr. Wagenseller, In many cases, it is not necessary to treat toenail fungus, and the condition is more often a cosmetic concern. If the appearance of your toenails is your biggest concern, you may want to forego medications that can have serious side effects. If the fungal infection is more serious and you notice a foul-smelling discharge or other signs of infection, treatment is necessary to ensure your whole body health and safety. Otherwise, determining whether or not to treat toenail fungus is really a matter of personal preference.

Also Check: How To Deal With Fungus Gnats

Know It May Have To Be Permanent

At this point, if he or she has not discussed this with you earlier, the doctor may recommend that you have the nail permanently prevented from growing back. This is only done in severe cases of fungus or other disorders where the problem would simply keep occurring if the nail grew back.

To do this, the doctor must destroy the nail matrix, which is the part of the toe that produces keratin, the element that toenails are made of.

The matrix can be dissolved chemically, which is the most common. This is called chemical cauterization, and involves the application of a chemical called phenol. Occasionally, some patients report their nails growing back, but generally this method is effective.

If this does not work, your doctor will perform a surgical matrixectomy. A flap of skin is surgically created at the base of the nail, where the matrix is located. After retracting the flap, the matrix is surgically removed.

How To Prevent Future Ingrown Toenails

Along with this home remedy for ingrown toenails, you also need to prevent future issues. This starts with wearing proper-fitting shoes. To ensure your shoes fit right, the toe of the shoe, referred to as the toe box, should provide enough space so that your toes arent crowded, a frequent cause of ingrown toenails. When you stand up in the shoe, strive for a halfâinch of space between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe.

We also advise all patients to cut their toenails straight across with clean, disinfected toenail clippers. Keep feet clean and dry, and protect them from injury by wearing shoes when necessary.

Dont Miss: How To Get Dip Nails Off At Home Without Acetone

Don’t Miss: Nine Inch Nails San Francisco

Are Video Visits With A Toenail Fungus Doctor Online Covered By My Insurance

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Toenail Fungus doctors who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.

How To Prepare To See Your Doctor

• List any symptoms, even ones that you feel are not likely related to your nail condition. This can affect your doctors treatment choices.
• List any medications that you are currently taking. Some nail fungus treatments may have interactions with other drugs. List any allergies or other personal information that may be relevant.
• Inform the doctor of any other health problems that you have. Conditions like cancer, diabetes and psoriasis can make you more vulnerable to infection or could make certain treatment options not good for you.

You May Like: What To Do To Make Your Nails Stronger

What Is Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is a widespread fungal infection that affects the toenails. Less commonly, nail fungus infects the fingernails. Nail fungus is also called onychomycosis.

Toenail fungus happens when fungi get between the toenail and the toenail bed . This usually happens through a crack or cut in your toe.

How Much Is Laser Toenail Fungus Removal

While laser toenail fungus treatment is FDA approved, very effective, and very successful, most insurance companies, unfortunately, do not cover it.

• See us for a no-obligation consultation to see if it is the right choice for you, as there are numerous options for toenail fungus treatment.
• See a toenail specialist like a podiatrist to see if this is the best option for you!

Read Also: What Is The Best Nail Polish Remover

Are You Looking For A Toenail Fungus Specialist In Austin Tx

If you are looking for toenail fungus care, you should reach out to an experienced podiatrist. Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists can help. Our office provides a wide variety of advanced, effective treatment options for all kinds of painful conditions. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online our Austin office at 512.328.8900.

How Fungus Forms On Toenails

Usually toenail infection develops when the nail or surrounding skin has a small crack or cut and the area is exposed to fungus in the environment.

Warm, moist conditions allow fungus to grow. Walking barefoot in locker rooms or shared showers can increase your risk of coming in contact with fungus. Having sweaty feet or wearing non-breathable shoes can help the fungus take hold and spread.

Diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and a weak immune system can increase risk for toenail fungus.

Its also more common in older adults. Up to half of adults over the age of 70 may have toenail fungus, according to the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. A previous toenail injury, psoriasis, hyperhidrosis, and smoking can also increase risk. Children are rarely affected.

Don’t Miss: What Is The Best Wattage For Led Nail Lamp

Surgical Toe Fungus Removal Treatment

This is the last resort to treat the toenail fungus condition. The whole nail can be removed or part of it can be removed to allow a healthy growth of the nail. Sometimes the nail might be removed with some skin underneathit depends on the level of infection. This will ensure that the nail that grows back will not be susceptible to infections.

Over the counter remedies bought from your local drug store are not expensive. However, they are not as strong and might not completely clear the fungal infection. If they clear the infection for some time and it comes back, seek an alternative cureby visiting a podiatrist for further treatment.

John Smith is a Digital Marketing Consultant with more than 8 years of experience in SEO, SEM, SMO, blogging, etc having wide knowledge base into content marketing.