Fungal Nails and Laser Treatmentt

Many people don't realize they have a fungal nail problem and, therefore, don't seek treatment. Yet, fungal toenail infections are a common foot health problem and can persist for years without ever causing pain. The disease, characterized by a change in a toenail's color, is often considered nothing more than a mere blemish. Left untreated, however, it can present serious problems. Also referred to as onychomycosis, fungal nails are infections underneath the surface of the nail, which may also penetrate the nail. Fungal nail infections are often accompanied by a secondary bacterial and/or yeast infection in or about the nail plate, which ultimately can lead to difficulty and pain when walking or running. Symptoms may include discoloration, brittleness, loosening, thickening, or crumbling of the nail.

There are many different ways to treat fungal nails. Oral medication, over-the-counter medication, topical treatment, and laser treatment are all viable options for the treatment of fungal nails. Laser treatment is the latest development in treating fungal nails. At the Advanced Footcare Clinic you can become one of the first to experience this new state of the art treatment.

The link below is an article that was published in the Wall Street Journal regarding fungal nails and laser treatment for fungal nails. Read for yourself and see how this new technology can help treat your fungal nails.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704476604576158351630076320.html

Pictured below are actual results of patients who have used the laser treatment:

You can prevent fungal nail infections by taking these simple precautions:

• Exercise proper hygiene and regularly inspect your feet and toes.


• Keep your feet clean and dry.


• Wear shower shoes in public facilities whenever possible.


• Clip nails straight across so that the nail does not extend beyond the tip of the toe.


• Use a quality foot powder (talcum, not cornstarch) in conjunction with shoes that fit well and are made of materials that breathe.


• Avoid wearing excessively tight hosiery, which promotes moisture. Socks made of synthetic fiber tend to "wick" away moisture faster than cotton or wool socks, especially for those with more active lifestyles.


• Disinfect home pedicure tools and don't apply polish to nails suspected of infection.

Other tips:

• Don't share nail clippers or nail files with others.


• Don't share shoes or socks with others.


• Try not to injure your nail, such as by cutting it too short (trauma to the nail may lead to infections).


• Wear dry cotton socks, and change them two or three times a day if necessary.


• Wear dry shoes that allow air to circulate around your feet (tight, enclosed, moist shoes contribute to fungal toenail infections).


• Wear shower sandals or shower shoes when you are at a public pool or shower.

If you have tried all of the tips above and still have issues with your fungal nails or would like to have more information regarding the laser treatment please call our office at 419-423-1888 to speak with us.