Fungal infection in and around the toenail is a very common condition. It may not always be painful, but it is a unpleasant to look at. Men are usually more prone to fungal infections than women. As you get older, chances of contracting the condition increase as well. This condition is not fatal. For hygiene and aesthetic purposes, it should be treated right away.
Toenail fungal infection usually begins with discoloration of the toenail. As it spreads deeper within the underlying tissues, it causes the nail to thicken and sometimes to the point of falling off. This infection can be treated with medications. Laser treatment is also available for those who do not want to take the medication.
Causes of Toenail Fungal Infection
Prevention is always better than treatment after the fact. Eliminating the risks of toenail fungus is something most people should look into. Although not everyone can do anything about developing this infection, you can follow measures on how you can greatly reduce the risk of contracting a toenail fungal infection.
Athletes are most commonly plagued by this condition due to the constant dampness of their feet. A toenail fungus can start due to various reasons with athlete’s foot being one of them. Athlete’s foot when left untreated can result in a worsened fungal infection of the toenails.
From a medical standpoint, toenail infections are caused by microscopic organisms called dermatophytes. These organisms do not need the sun to survive, making it a common occurrence in damp and dark places.
With this in mind, you should try to adhere to the following measures.
- Avoid wearing socks or footwear when your feet are still wet. Dry them well before putting on any footwear.
- Shoes that are too small or too big can contribute to the development of fungal infections.
- Walking barefoot or wearing slippers or open shoes in wet public areas.
- It can also be hereditary.
Advantages of Laser Treatment
Laser treatment is an effective treatment for toenail fungus. This treatment does not require you to take any sort of pills for an extended period of time. The treatment takes about 30 minutes. You will not see an immediate change in your toenails, since the nail has to grow out for you to see change.
Since no medication is prescribed, the patient does not have to worry about development of complications of medication overdose. Medication overdose could result in damage to liver or kidney function.
Laser treatment for toenail fungus has been proven safe and effective by the FDA.
In the 30 minutes time of the treatment, most people do not feel any pain or discomfort.
Most people tend to question the significance of laser procedures in the removal of fungal infections of the toenails. Modern technology has made a positive impact in the medical field.. Laser treatment is one of the greatest innovations in treating medical conditions. Laser treatment of toenail fungal infections has a high success rate.
Laser treatment is a relatively new technology. You need to consult with your podiatrist to see if you would be a good candidate for laser treatment for management of toenail fungal infection.
