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A toenail fungus will get under the surface of the nail where it takes hold and may even spread to other toenails. Left untreated, the infection may make it difficult to walk and work. The thicker toenails are hard to trim and make it painful to wear shoes.
Fungal nail is contagious and you are vulnerable in public areas like swimming pools, showers, spas and locker rooms. People with diabetes or who suffer from circulatory problems or immune deficiency are prone to toenail fungus.
More About Fungal Toenails
Toenail fungus causes many unpleasant symptoms including:
- Change in toenail appearance, texture and color
- Nail thickening
- Unpleasant odor
- Debris noticeable under the nail plate
- White marks on the nail plate
Home treatments including over-the-counter antifungal creams may ease the symptoms of toenail fungus, but full healing can only be obtained through a podiatrist’s care.
Advanced Foot Care of NJ is pleased to be able to provide our patients with the latest in advanced laser treatment for fungal toenails. Laser treatment is fast becoming the option of choice for nail fungus eradication. Laser treatment has demonstrated safe and effective results for nail fungus treatment.
It provides excellent results with deep penetration, ensuring effective treatment through the nail, without impacting surrounding structures.
During the procedure, the pathogens that cause toenail fungus are targeted, allowing the new nail to grow in healthy and clear. Unlike some medication-driven treatments for toenail fungus, the laser presents no side effects, and it is a great alternative for many patients who cannot or do not want to take oral medications.
Would you like to see a demonstration of laser application?
Check out this video:
- Padding and taping to minimize pain and relieve stress.
- Anti-inflammatory medications and/or cortisone injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Custom-fitted orthotics to reduce symptoms and prevent worsening of the deformity.
There are several surgical options if necessary.
Toenail fungus can be prevented with these commonsense tips:
- Wash your feet with warm soapy water every day, and dry thoroughly.
- Always protect your feet in public areas with shower shoes or flip-flops
- Wear clean socks every day and change more often if they become sweaty
- Trim nails straight across and short enough so that they don’t extend beyond the toe tip
- Choose socks made of synthetic fiber to wick moisture away from the skin
- Don’t use polish on those nails that may have an infection
