Toenail Fungus Treatment
in San Antonio TX
Toenail Fungus Treatment
At Jonathan Lorenzana, DPM, we provide toenail fungus treatment in San Antonio to help cure that irritating foot problem. It can sometimes be embarrassing to take off your shoes in front of people without getting looked at.
Toenail fungus is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungus. Over time toenail fungus can change the appearance of the nail, such as a causing brownish discoloration and/or thickening of the
nail. Another symptom of toenail fungus that can be embarrassing is bad foot odor caused by subungal (under the nail) fungal debris. Also, fungal shedding from the nail can spread throughout the house and cause toenail fungal infections to family members.
What causes toenail fungus?
When toenails are especially vulnerable around damp areas where you are likely to be walking barefoot, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers, and even your shoes for example. Injury to the nail bed may make it more susceptible to all types of infection, including fungal infection. Those with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, circulatory problems, or immune-deficiency conditions, are especially prone to fungal nails. A history of athlete’s foot and excessive perspiration can lead to toenail fungus.
Treatment of toenail fungus
Home treatment includes a daily routine of washing your feet with soap and water, remembering to dry thoroughly. Walking barefoot is discouraged, especially in public areas. Do not wear the same pair of shoes daily. If you excessively perspire, change your socks during the day. Wear shoes that fit well and made of breathable material.
Prescription medication, approved by the FDA, can be a helpful solution but run the risk of liver toxicity, and requires multiple blood tests.
San Antonio Laser toenail fungus treatment
The reason toenail fungus is difficult to treat is because the fungus is underneath the nail, which makes it hard for topical medications to reach the fungus. The benefit of Laser Therapy is that the light beam will penetrate through the nail and vaporize the nail fungus on contact. PinPointe foot laser is considered the gold standard in toenail fungus treatment with a success rate of 85% and generally only requiring one treatment. However, more severe toenail fungus infection may require additional treatments.
After the Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment
After the treatment, anti-fungal cream or spray is applied to the foot and preventive advice is given. Since fungal nail infections are caused by contact with fungi, care should be taken to improve levels of hygiene to prevent recurrence of the infection. We have several products we advise to assist in maintaining the long-term health of your feet. These include anti-fungal shoe sprays, athlete’s foot creams and anti-fungal nail solutions.