Toenail Fungus

Treating Toenail Fungus In Algonquin, IL

Do modern solutions create modern problems? When it comes to wearing socks and shoes, it appears that is the case. Places in the world that have a higher instance of wearing shoes and socks that are restrictive and closed in, also see a higher occurrence of fungal infections on the feet! An article from the National Institute Of Health reads that around 15% of the North American population is experiencing some form of fungal nail infection and out of all nail related conditions, 50% of them involve a form of fungus! The good news is, when a condition is this common, there is an evidence-based, effective treatment for it!

What Are Fungal Toenails And Their Symptoms?

Fungal toenails usually begin as a yellowish area under the nail. They can later spread to cover the entire nail, changing its color and thickening it. If pain becomes present within your fungal toenail, you should seek out treatment. Some symptoms of toenail fungus include:

• Yellowing of toenail
• Brittleness of nail
• Nail thickening
• Nail deformity
• The nail becomes dull in luster

How Can I Tell The Difference Between Dystrophy And Fungal Toenails?

Sometimes, toenail fungus is easily confused with dystrophy because they look very similar. Dystrophy is caused by repeated pressure on the toe, and not fungal infections. Microscopic lab tests on nail fragments help identify toenail fungus.

What Are The Causes Of Toenail Fungus?

There are several possible causes for a fungal toenail. It is important to identify any possible ways you may have contracted your fungal infection in order to prevent any future infections. Some common ways that patients develop fungal toenail include:

• Don’t walk barefoot in public places like public showers, swimming pools, and gyms
• Try to keep shoes dry, powder helps remove moisture from feet
• Tiny, microscopic cuts on feet can allow bacteria to seep in
• Bacteria festers in warm, moist environments
• Make sure to change socks every day
• Heavy foot perspiration
• Family history of fungal toenail

What Are The Potential Treatment Options For Toenail Fungus?

There are many treatment options available to help with fungal toenail ranging from topical medication to comprehensive medical treatment. Some common treatments include:

• Antifungal medication
• Medicated cream/nail polish
• Laser treatment
• If all other options have been tried, surgery may be used as a last resort

Fungal Infections Don’t ‘Go Away’ – They Must Be Treated!

The conditions inside your socks and shoes are ideal for fungus growth, that’s why it will persist and potentially continue to spread if left untreated. To cure yourself of a fungal toenail, you need to seek medical treatment! What kind of treatment is right for you can be recommended by one of the professionals at Foot and Ankle Specialists Of Illinois! Call or book an appointment online when you are ready to begin treatment for your fungal toenail!