Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus makes your nails weak, crumbly, and discolored. If you develop these symptoms, talk to Caitlyn Lee, DPM, AACFAS, and Wenjay Sung, DPM, FACFAS, at Global Podiatry Partners, Inc. in Arcadia, California. They excel in diagnosing problems like toenail fungus and restoring nail health and strength. Call the Global Podiatry Partners, Inc. office or book an appointment online today for effective toenail fungus treatment.

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus attacks your toenail from the cuticle, thickening and yellowing the nail as it spreads. The nail may be brittle, crumbly, or an abnormal shape. It can also be painful and smell unpleasant.

Feet are prone to fungal infections because these microorganisms thrive in warm, dark, moist environments like shoes. You’re most likely to pick up a fungal infection at public places like swimming pools and locker rooms where people walk barefoot. 

Other things that can cause similar toenail discoloration include injuries, nutrient deficiencies, and the skin disease psoriasis. For an accurate diagnosis, visit Global Podiatry Partners, Inc.

Your podiatrist takes samples to determine if you have toenail fungus and what kind so they can prescribe the most effective treatment.

Is toenail fungus a serious problem?

Although unsightly and uncomfortable, toenail fungus isn’t a serious condition if you’re healthy. However, it could be a problem for people with poor circulation and conditions like diabetes because it increases the risk of bacterial infection.

Toenail fungus can weaken the nail and cause damage that enables bacteria to infect the soft tissues. Infection allowed to become more severe can lead to amputation in extreme cases.

If you have diabetes or poor circulation, you should always visit Global Podiatry Partners, Inc. for treatment if you notice signs of toenail fungus.

What treatment would I need for toenail fungus?

Treatments for toenail fungus include:

• Topical antifungal medications
• Oral antifungal medications
• Topical keratolytic medication

Toenail fungus might require one or more of these treatments alongside continual efforts to prevent it from recurring.

How do I stop toenail fungus from coming back?

Keeping toenail fungus under control might include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying your feet daily
• Applying antifungal cream
• Not sharing nail clippers
• Not wearing others’ shoes or socks
• Wearing dry cotton socks
• Changing socks frequently
• Wearing dry shoes
• Using shower sandals in pools and locker rooms

It can take a year or more for a diseased toenail to regrow entirely, so it’s well worth avoiding toenail fungus infection even if you aren’t in a high-risk group.

Call Global Podiatry Partners, Inc. if you notice toenail discoloration or thickening. You can also access expert fungal toenail treatments by completing the online booking form today.