Removal Of Ugly Fungal Toenails - The Texas Foot Specialists

Nail abnormalities can be an indication of a fungal nail infection. Fungal nail infection, also known as onychomycosis, is a common occurrence across all ages. This happens when a fungus infects a fingernail, toenail or the nail bed. The fungus can infect your nail through small cuts or wounds around the nail or through an opening between the nail and the nail bed. A nail with a fungus infection appears yellowish, crumbles easily and thicker than usual.

Fungal nail infections respond well to treatment but if left untreated, this could progress into more serious conditions.  Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in diagnosing and treating fungal nail infections.

There are factors that increases your risk for developing fungal nail infection. These include genetics, people suffering from diabetes, circulation problems, weak immune system or Down syndrome. The elderly those who perspire profusely and works in humid or moist environment are good candidates for fungal nail infections.

Fungal nail infection is commonly found in toenails. This is because fungus thrive under certain conditions such as abnormal pH levels of the skin and continuous exposure to dark, warm and moist environments. Conditions which perfectly describe shoes. However, this condition is highly treatable. There are home remedies that could help treat fungal nail infection during its early stages. Always Check with your doctor first.   

• Apple Cider Vinegar – it is mildly acidic and it kills both bacteria and fungi.
• Orange oil – it has antifungal properties that can be used to treat fungal nail infection.
• Baking soda – effective for treating toenail fungal infections and helps neutralize foot odor.
• Tea tree oil – has antifungal and antiseptic properties that is very useful in treating fungal nail infections.
• Oil of oregano – has antifungal, antibacterial, anti-parasitic, antiviral, analgesic and antiseptic properties making it one of the most effective treatments for fungal nail infections.
• Garlic – compounds such as ajoene and allicin that helps treat fungal nail infections.
• White vinegar – contains compounds that are best in treating fungal nail infection and restoring the skin’s PH.
• Lavender oil – contains compounds that can fight any kind of infection and prevent skin irritation.
• Lemon juice – it has both antifungal and antiseptic properties.
• Listerine mouthwash – contains alcohol that act as antiseptic and antifungal.

However, if these home remedies do not work then you should consult your podiatrist immediately. A podiatrist is a physician or surgeon who specializes in diagnosing and treating foot, ankle, and related conditions. 

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with fungal toenails. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Toenail Fungus Hits Madonna? - The Texas Foot Specialists

Madonna the Queen of Pop, hit-making icon, and a performer that created a legacy of hard to forget songs. Who would have thought that this feminist force of nature had all the classic symptoms of toenail fungus?

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus is the common term for Onychomycosis. It is a very common foot problem caused by fungi. Toenail fungus usually affects the tissues under the nails and the infection spreads quickly. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with toenail fungus and other types of foot conditions.

What are some the causes of toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus usually occurs from the overgrowth of fungi in, on, or under the nail. The warm and moist environment can cause fungi to overpopulate. These fungi can cause nail infections especially if you come in contact with someone with a fungal infection. You are at high risk if you walk barefoot in public areas such as locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools.

What does it look like?

The following are the visible signs of toenail fungus:

• Scaling under the nail
• Crumbling corner or tip of the nail
• Yellow spots at the bottom of the nail
• A distorted nail
• Brittle or thickened nail
• White or yellow streaks of the nail
• Flaking white areas on the nail’s surface
• Loss of the nail, and
• An odor coming from the infected nail

Some infections that affect the nails also have the same symptoms as toenail fungus. The best way to confirm a diagnosis is to visit a doctor and let him examine you.

What are the treatments for toenail fungus?

The following are the treatment options for toenail fungus:

• Oral anti-fungal drugs. These drugs will help a new nail to grow free from infection and will replace the infected part.
• Medicated nail polish. Paint it on your infected nail and the surrounding skin once a day to cure the infection.
• Medicated nail cream. Rub the antifungal cream into your infected nails after soaking.
• Nail removal. Your doctor may suggest removing your nail if the infection is severe and is extremely painful.
• Laser beams. This method will help your nails to improve.

How to prevent toenail fungus?

These habits may help prevent toenail fungus and reinfection:

• Keep your nail clean and well-trimmed
• Wash hands thoroughly after touching an infected nail
• Choose a trustworthy salon that you can have a manicure and pedicure
• Wear socks that minimize moisture
• Reduce using artificial nail and nail polish
• Regularly use antifungal sprays or powders
• Dry your feet well after shower
• Avoid walking barefoot in public places

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people suffering from toenail fungus and other foot conditions. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.

Toenail Conditions and Prevention - The Texas Foot Specialists

Toenail care often take a backseat to fingernail care. This is because fingernails are more visible compared to its toe counterparts. Toenail care is disregarded since hiding imperfections can easily be done by wearing shoes.

Keeping out toenails healthy should never be taken lightly. Simple foot care can go a long way to keeping these looking great and healthy.  Visit a podiatrist to learn more about proper toenail care. Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller are Podiatrists who specialize in helping people with foot conditions.

Here are several tips on how to keep your toenails healthy and in a perfect condition.

• Eating healthy and Vitamin supplements
• Keratin is a protein which helps in keeping your nails healthy. This is why you should take proteins to keep your nails healthy and brittle free. Good sources of protein are dairy products, beans, lean meat and eggs.
• Calcium is also essential in maintaining your nail’s health. Calcium found in milk, cheese and yogurt can do the trick.
• Vitamin A supplements and supplemental biotin will also help big time. Biotin helps increase your nail thickness and prevents it from cracking and breaking easily.

Wearing of correct shoes and socks.

Wear your shoes alternately and keep them dry. This helps prevent bacterial and fungal infection. When buying shoes, make sure that it fits correctly without touching or banging on your toenails. This can cramp your toes.

For socks, avoid wearing socks made of polyester or nylon. This prevents sweat from airing out and may cause bad odor to your feet. Instead, choose socks made from natural fibers such as wool. Proper ventilation keeps your toenails healthy.

Toenails and Health Disorders

Unhealthy nails are usually caused by external factors such as infection, improper trimming and pedicure. If you notice unusual signs on your nails this might be a result of an underlying medical condition that you need to check with your doctor.

• Pale nail beds – anemia
• Yellowish nails with a blush on the base – diabetes
• White nails – liver problem
• Sluggish growth, thickening and yellowing of nails – lung disorder

The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston, we specialize in helping people with Toenail disorders. To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.