Did you know that 10% of the population lives with toenail fungus? Even though this condition is common, it’s often difficult to treat. The board-certified podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Specialty Center in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, know what it takes to treat and ultimately prevent toenail fungus. Call or use the online booking tool to request a consultation today.
Microscopic fungal organisms or fungi are directly responsible for toenail fungus. Dermatophyte is the most common type of fungi associated with toenail problems. If dermatophyte infiltrates your nails, it quickly multiplies and spreads to other toes.
Toenail fungus directly impacts the color and structural integrity of your toenails. Common symptoms include:
Some people’s toenails also become brittle and start chipping or cracking.
To determine if you have a toenail fungus, your podiatrist performs a thorough visual and physical inspection of your toenails and the skin surrounding them.
If necessary, they may also collect samples by trimming one or more of your toenails. These samples are viewed under a microscope to determine the source of your discomfort.
If toenail fungus is caught early on, over-the-counter topical ointments can provide relief. However, if your symptoms persist, the team at Foot & Ankle Specialty Center offers an array of more intensive options, including:
Topical prescription ointments like Amorolfine and Tavaborole prevent new fungi from developing as your nails grow out.
For more serious cases, the team recommends taking oral anti-fungal medications. Oral medications work much quicker than topical ointments and encourage the growth of healthy, fungi-free nails.
Certain types of nail fungus are difficult to treat. If topical ointment or oral medications don’t relieve your symptoms on their own, your provider may recommend a combination of both.
Severe toenail infections resistant to other types of treatment often require surgical intervention. The expert podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Specialty Center perform nail-removal procedures on an outpatient basis and can either surgically or chemically remove the nail.
There are preventive steps you can take to avoid developing toenail fungus in the first place, including washing your feet and toes regularly, trimming your toenails straight across, and wearing shoes that breathe.
If toenail fungus negatively impacts your confidence or self-esteem, call or use the online booking tool and request an appointment at Foot & Ankle Specialty Center today.
