Treating Fungal Toenails

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At Texas Foot Specialists, we know that summer means more revealing footwear, and this prompts many patients to come to us for help with unsightly toenails caused by fungal infection, also known as onychomycosis. Fungus is an organism that breeds in warm, moist places like the inside of your socks and shoes. It then takes up residence under or in your nail resulting in thick, yellowish-brown nails that are brittle and sometimes crumbly on the edges, giving your nail a deformed appearance. If you suspect you have a fungal toenail condition, the first step is to make an appointment at our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600), or Houston (713-664-6677) office. Our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum, will examine your toenails to confirm that the problem is fungal and then prescribe the correct treatment. Fungal toenails can be slow and difficult to cure. There are three ways to treat fungal nails:

  1. Topical medications applied directly to the nail.

  2. Oral medications, which can sometimes have serious side effects.

  3. Laser therapy, which focuses a concentrated laser beam of light through the nail to eradicate the fungus living under and in the nail.

Laser therapy is our treatment of choice for several reasons:

  • Painless

  • Requires no anesthesia

  • Performed in office

  • Can achieve healthy-looking nails is about 5 treatments for most patients

Preventing Nail Infections

Of course, the best scenario is avoiding fungal infections in the first place. These infections are spread by direct contact. They can also develop from skin infections like athlete’s foot. To protect yourself, observe the following precautions:

  • Keep feet covered in public places like community pools, gyms, and nail salons.

  • Don’t share shoes, socks, pedicure tools, or other items that touch someone else’s feet.

  • Change your socks and shoes as soon as you notice they are damp.

  • Use an anti-fungal powder on your feet each morning.

If you have questions or concerns about the appearance of your toenails or feet, contact us for more information.