Treatment Options For Fungal Toenails
A fungal infection in one of your toenails can be both uncomfortable and unsightly
. To fix the problem, there are both topical and oral treatments that can be used. If you are suffering from a fungal toenail, see your Metairie podiatrist as soon as possible to find out the best way to fix your problem.What Causes Toenail Fungus?
Fungi are microscopic organisms that can survive without sunlight. They tend to thrive in warm, wet environments like showers and swimming pools. Once they get into your toenail, they are often able to thrive in the dark, wet environment inside of your shoes. The low circulation of blood to your toes also makes it difficult for your immune system to fight off the infection.
Fungal toenails tend to affect older men most often. As you get older, there is a diminished flow of blood to your toes and a longer period of exposure to fungi. Here are a few more of the most common factors that can increase your chances of getting a fungal toenail:
*Walking barefoot in wet public areas. Walking without shoes in swimming pools, showers or gyms can increase your chances of a fungal infection.
*Sweating heavily. If your feet are constantly sweaty, fungus will be more likely to survive and thrive near your toes in your shoe.
*Diabetes. Diabetes restricts the flow of blood to the extremities. Because of this, your immune system will be less prepared to fight off the fungal infection.
*Poor shoes. If you wear shoes that do not ventilate or effectively absorb perspiration well, fungus will be able to thrive near your feet.
Options To Treat Fungal Toenails
To learn about what treatment options you have, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist. There are over the counter creams and ointments available, but they generally are not as effective as prescribed medications from your podiatrist. When you see your podiatrist, depending on the severity of the infection, he or she will usually prescribe either an oral medication or a topical cream.
Oral medications are generally taken for 6 to 12 weeks. They work by helping a new nail to grow without any infection. Because of this, the infection is removed very slowly. You won't be fully rid of the infection for four months or longer. Your podiatrist may also prescribe a topical medication that you will apply directly to your toenail. Generally this medication is used in conjunction with oral medication. In the most extreme cases, your podiatrist may perform surgery to remove your nail. If this happens, your nail will grow back very slowly, possibly taking up to a year to fully grow back.
To learn more about how to treat your fungal toenail or to schedule an appointment, contact your Metairie podiatrist today.
by: Gen Wright Cheap Health Insurance Information That Will Change The Way You Think Finding A Treatment For Tmj Latest Blepharitis Treatment Unique Blepharitis Treatment Cheap Health Insurance Know How Will Save You Money Seborrheic Blepharitis Treatment Options Shoulder Dislocation Treatment What You Need To Know Graves Disease Treatment Ideas Chronic Back Pain - What Is An Effective Pain Treatment? Know About Mediclaim And Critical Illness Insurance Alleviate Your Stress With Hydrotherapy Independent Silicon Valley Physicians Offer The Best In Class Private Treatment The School Of The Americas: A Doctorate In Tortureology