Beating a fungal toenail infection on your own can be a daunting task. The pesky fungus responsible for the infection is hearty, spreads easily to other nails, and won’t go down without a long fight. Making matters worse, even after the fungus is killed, it takes a long time for a healthy nail to grow in. Luckily, podiatrists have plenty of experience and various methods for treating this very common condition. For instance, there are topical and oral prescriptions as well as antifungal medications that are stronger and can be more effective than those sold over the counter. FDA-approved laser treatments—which kill the fungus using a precision beam of light—have become an increasingly popular treatment for toenail infections. Additionally, there are exciting cosmetic procedures available which create a natural-looking nail on top, giving the real nail time to grow back. To join forces and get professional help in defeating your fungal toenail infection, call a podiatrist near you.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Ronald K. Olm of Grand Traverse Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Traverse City and Kalkaska, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.