Comprehensive Guide to Treating Fungal Toenails
Jul 31, 2024If you've recently been diagnosed with a fungal nail infection, this blog is for you. Let's dive into the different approaches to help you choose the best treatment for your specific situation and ensure effective management of the infection.
Fungal toenail infections can be a persistent and uncomfortable issue. The appropriate treatment for fungal toenails depends on several factors, including:
- The number of toenails affected
- The extent of fungal coverage on the toenail
- Whether the fungus has reached the nail growth area
- The thickness of the toenail
- Signs of fungal infection on the surrounding skin
Understanding these factors can help you choose the best treatment for your specific situation. Let's explore the different approaches to effectively manage and treat fungal toenail infections.
1. Topical Antifungals
Topical antifungals are typically the first line of treatment for localised fungal infections. These treatments involve applying lacquers and creams directly to the affected toenail. They are convenient and can be highly effective in eliminating the infection when used consistently.
2. Oral Antifungals
For more extensive or persistent fungal infections, oral antifungal medications may be necessary. These systemic treatments work throughout the body to combat the infection, offering a comprehensive solution when topical treatments aren’t sufficient.
3. Laser Treatment
Laser treatment is an innovative option for treating fungal nails. Here's how it works:
- The laser emits pulses of light energy that penetrate the nail and reach the underlying fungal cells.
- The fungal pigments absorb this light, generating heat.
- This heat damages and destroys the fungal cells, inhibiting their growth and spread.
At Foot Corner, we offer the S30 PODYLAS laser, a class 4 laser unit that is simple to use, has minimal side effects, and is 85% effective. Fot more information Click here
4. Lifestyle Adjustments
Lifestyle changes can significantly aid in treating and preventing fungal infections. Consider the following adjustments:
- Keep your feet dry
- Wear breathable shoes
- Practice good foot hygiene
These simple changes can make a big difference in managing and preventing future infections.
5. Total Nail Avulsion
In some severe cases, removing the entire nail, including the root (matrix), might be necessary. This procedure is often followed by treatment to address the fungal infection. It's important to note that this does not guarantee healthy nail regrowth. For more information Click Here
6. Follow-Up Appointment
We recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment to assess your progress. During this visit, we can evaluate how well the treatment is working and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the best outcome. If the toenails are thickened and deformed, we can reduce the thickness to allow the chosen treatment to be more effective.
Potential Side Effects
As with any treatment, there may be potential side effects. For topical treatments, you might experience skin irritation. Oral medications can sometimes cause gastrointestinal issues. It's important to discuss any concerns with one of our highly trained podiatrist.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your fungal nail infection, please reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way!
Phone: 01784 250 781
Email: [email protected]