Fungal Nails
Are your nails growing abnormal and have become painful? Do they appear thick and break easy or are very brittle? Do you notice that they have changed in color or are changing in color? If you answered yes to the above, you may be experiencing the common problems associated with toenail fungus.
Toenail fungus is a result of bacteria or naturally occurring fungus from the environment that has established a presence underneath your nail. It is difficult to determine exactly how you acquired the fungal changes but it commonly occurs after the nail has experienced any form of trauma. This may include dropping an object onto your toe or something as subtle as repetitive trauma from wearing tight shoes. Once the nail or nail bed has been disturbed from its natural state, bacteria and fungus can invade your toenail and begin to implement changes in the nail’s appearance.
Historically, treating fungal nails has included topical medications, oral agents (pills), surgical removal of the nail plate, and now even laser treatments are available.
Topical medications are very similar to that of a nail polish in that you paint a medicine on the nails daily. It is recommended that the nail is filed down on a regular basis to assist in maintaining a consistent application of new medicine.
Oral agents have also been an affective treatment but do require you to take a pill for multiple months. The main drawback to oral medications is the potential for side effects and your physician will sometimes obtain routine blood work to monitor for this.
Removing the nail is also an option. This will enable you to remove all of the fungus at one time. This option is the most aggressive and there is no guarantee that the fungus will not return.
Lastly, a new treatment available for nail fungus is a laser treatment. This treatment is slowly gaining popularity in the United States as it is safe and requires less work on that part of the patient. This laser is specially designed to shine through your toenail to destroy the specific pathogens embedded in and under your nail causing the infection.
Early reports have shown the laser to be very effective with high success rates. You can read more about this treatment and how we are the only Podiatry practice in Georgia to make this treatment available to you by checking out our LaserNails page.
Seeking Treatment For Fungal Nails?
The Podiatrists here at the Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia specialize in the treatment of fungal nails, and their underlying causes, and will assess your situation and discuss your treatment options with you so that you can get started on the path to recovery.
Speak With A Specialist Today!
If you are experiencing abnormal changes with your toenails, please speak with one of our specialists today. To help you get back on your feet, please call the Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia at: 404-351-5015. Or you can CLICK HERE to contact us by email.
