Toenail Fungus

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus is an infection that sets in under your toenail. As the fungal infection spreads, your nail starts to look yellow and thickened. Toenail fungus can also be painful and might cause the nail to separate if left untreated.

There are several different fungal strains that might cause toenail fungus. One of the most widespread is called onychomycosis. You’re most likely to pick up toenail fungus in public places like swimming pools and locker rooms, where people often walk barefoot.

Feet are particularly vulnerable to fungal infection because inside your shoes and socks is the warm, moist, dark environment that toenail fungus and other fungal infections like athlete’s foot need to thrive.

Is toenail fungus a serious condition?

Toenail fungus isn’t a serious condition provided you’re in good health. It can make your toenails look unattractive, and you might like to have the toenails treated at The Foot and Ankle Specialists to improve their appearance. If you leave your toenails untreated for long enough, you do risk the toenail separating from your toe or worsening discoloring and thickness.

People who have diabetes or a circulatory disorder like venous insufficiency that affects the legs and feet face additional risks from toenail fungus. Conditions that affect the circulation leave you more vulnerable to bacterial infection and toenail fungus weakens the nails and cuticles, making it easier for bacteria to infect your feet.

If you have diabetes or problems with your circulation, you should see a podiatrist at The Foot and Ankle Specialists regularly to check your feet. If you notice any signs of toenail fungus, see a podiatrist as soon as you can.

How is toenail fungus diagnosed?

The symptoms caused by toenail fungus can resemble symptoms of other conditions, such as:

• Traumatic injury
• Psoriasis
• Vitamin deficiency

Therefore, you need an accurate diagnosis to receive the right treatment. The Foot and Ankle Specialists team takes samples of your toenail for analysis so they can give you the correct diagnosis.

What treatments are there for toenail fungus?

When your test results come back, your podiatrist can see which strain of toenail fungus you have and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Some of the options available at The Foot and Ankle Specialists for toenail fungus include:

• Topical antifungal prescription medication
• Oral antifungal medication
• Formula-3® Antifungal nail gel
• Bako Kera Nail Gel™

If you have a thickening or yellowing toenail, let the expert podiatrists at The Foot and Ankle Specialists help. Call today to schedule an appointment or use the online booking tool.