Addressing Nail Fungus With Professional Treatment
Changes in the appearance or texture of toenails often indicate a fungal infection. While individuals may attempt to manage nail fungus symptoms with over-the-counter solutions, these methods often fail to penetrate the nail bed where the fungus resides. Professional intervention offers targeted strategies designed to address the infection at its source and treat it before it progresses further.
What Is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus is a common infection that can begin as a white or yellow spot under the tip of a fingernail or toenail. The infection can progress and cause the nail to discolor, thicken, and crumble at the edge. It has the potential to affect several nails. If a condition is mild and not bothersome, treatment may not be needed. For painful infections with thickened nails, self-care steps and medications can provide relief. Even with successful treatment, nail fungus can recur.
These infections are caused by various fungal organisms. The most frequent cause is a type of fungus called a dermatophyte. Yeasts and molds can also lead to nail infections. Fungal nail infections can develop in people at any age, but they are more common in older adults. Other factors, such as reduced blood circulation to the feet and a weakened immune system, may also play a role.
How Is It Identified?
Identifying nail fungus starts with a visual examination, but a definitive diagnosis requires more. A podiatrist will inspect the nails for common signs, including thickening, discoloration, and brittleness. The nail might become distorted in shape or separate from the nail bed. In some cases, a foul odor may be present. To confirm the diagnosis, a doctor will likely take nail clippings or scrape debris from under the nail. These samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis; this process identifies the specific type of fungus causing the infection. Knowing the precise cause of the infection helps in determining the most effective treatment plan.
How Is It Treated?
Professional treatment for nail fungus varies based on the severity of the condition and the type of fungus identified. Oral antifungal drugs are often prescribed first because they help a new, uninfected nail to grow and slowly replace the infected portion. A typical course of treatment lasts from six to 12 weeks. The final results of the treatment will not be visible until the nail has grown back completely, a process that can take four months or longer.
Topical options include medicated nail polish or creams. A doctor might prescribe an antifungal nail polish that is painted onto the infected nails and surrounding skin once a day. After seven days, the accumulated layers are wiped clean with alcohol, and fresh applications begin. This type of treatment may need to be used daily for nearly a year.
For severe infections or those that do not respond to other therapies, temporary removal of the nail may be recommended. This allows for the direct application of antifungal medication to the infection under the nail. Permanent nail removal might be suggested as a course of action if an infection is particularly severe.
Meet With a Podiatrist
Seeking guidance from a specialist is a direct path to resolving persistent nail issues. A podiatrist conducts a thorough evaluation of foot health, identifying contributing factors such as hygiene or circulatory problems. Early intervention can lead to simpler treatment protocols and faster recovery. Allowing an infection to persist can cause it to spread to other nails or the skin. A consultation provides access to prescription-strength treatments and advanced procedures, which support long-term foot health.
