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.

Proper Care for Keeping your Toes Healthy

Toes are usually hidden from sight by shoes. But for those times when it does come into view, keeping them clean and healthy is a must. Pedicures is a simple way of keeping our toes looking great. But if this is done to hide an imperfection then it is detrimental to your toe’s health.

Keeping the toes healthy is an essential part of foot care. Without it, it increases our risks for toenail conditions. Consult a podiatrist if you notice any toe deformity. Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum are Podiatrists who specializes in helping people with foot conditions.

Here are a few tips for keeping your toenails healthy.

Eat a well-balanced diet. Eating healthy does not only work wonders on your figure. It too can help your toenails looking great and healthy. A well-balanced diet is important for maintaining the recommended levels of keratin. Low levels of this protein can cause your nails to become brittle and ugly. Eat foods that are rich in Keratin which includes green leafy vegetables, beans and nuts among others.

Trim your toenails regularly. Toenails should be trimmed straight across. Don’t go overboard by cutting into the sides of the toenails. This is to prevent the development of ingrown toenails. Apply a mild antiseptic foot powder after every trimming and give it a gentle massage. This helps limit bacterial growth. Massaging your feet will also help promote proper blood circulation to your toes.

Use correct fitting socks and shoes. This is important especially in children whose nails and feet are still developing. Use socks made from natural fiber such as cotton and make sure that the shoes you are wearing fit correctly. The Texas Foot Specialists located in Sugar Land, Pasadena and Houston we specialize in helping people with foot disorders.To schedule an appointment call Sugar Land (281) 242-4448, Pasadena (281) 991-0600 and Houston (713) 664-6677.