subject: Avoiding Toenail Fungus With Your Podiatrist [print this page] If you are suffering from or have ever had a fungal infection in your toenail, you know how uncomfortable and unsightly this condition can be. To get rid of this problem, there are both oral and topical medications that you can use. If you are suffering from fungal toenail, don't hesitate to talk to your Oak Brook podiatrist as soon as possible to receive treatment to correct the problem.
What Are The Causes Of Toenail Fungus?
Fungi are microscopic organisms that are able to survive without any sunlight. They usually thrive in wet and warm environments such as swimming pools and showers. Once fungus appears underneath your toenail, it tends to survive and grow in the dark, wet environment under your toe. The lower circulation of blood to your toe also makes it difficult for your body to fight off the infection.
As you age and the flow of blood to your extremities starts to diminish, you will become more at risk for a fungal toenail. Here are a few more common factors that can increase your chances of developing a fungal toenail:
*Poor shoes. If you shoes do not properly ventilate air or absorb moisture correctly, fungus will be more likely to grow and survive near your feet.
*Walking barefoot in wet public places. Walking without shoes on in gyms, public showers or swimming pools can greatly increase the probability that you will develop a fungal toenail.
*Sweating heavily. If you feet are often sweaty, fungus will be more likely to survive and grow near your toes in your shoes.
*Diabetes. Diabetes further restricts the flow of blood to your extremities. Because of this, your body will be less able to fight off an infection and you will be more at risk to develop a fungal toenail.
Treating A Fungal Toenail
Depending on the severity of your fungal nail, there are a few different ways that you and your podiatrist can choose to treat it. There are a variety of over the counter creams and ointments available, but they are generally not as effective as prescribed medication from your Chicago podiatrist. When you go in to visit your podiatrist, he or she will be able to prescribe you an oral medication, topical cream or both.
Another very effective treatment for fungal nails is through laser treatment. With this technology, your podiatrist can get rid of your fungal infection without ever having to remove any of your toenail. The laser works by using specific wavelengths to penetrate your nail and kill the fungus without causing any damage to your nail. After treatment, your nail will begin to grow back without any trace of the infection. After about 4 months, your nail will be completely clear of the infection.
To learn more about fungal toenails or to schedule an appointment, contact your Oak Brook podiatrist today.
