Toenail Fungus

MANY TOENAIL FUNGUS TREATMENT OPTIONS, INCLUDING LASER

An infection of nail fungus occurs when fungi infect one or more of your nails. A nail fungal infection may begin as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the nail fungus spreads deeper into your nail, it may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and develop crumbling edges — an unsightly and potentially painful problem. An infection with nail fungus may be difficult to treat, and infections may recur. But medications are available to help clear up nail fungus.

You may have a nail fungal infection — also called onychomycosis (on-i-ko-mi-KO-sis) — if one or more of your nails are:

• Thickened

• Brittle, crumbly or ragged

• Distorted in shape

• Dull, with no luster or shine

• A dark color, caused by debris building up under your nail

Infected nails also may separate from the nail bed, a condition called onycholysis. You may feel pain in your toes or fingertips and detect a slightly foul odor. Fungi are microscopic organisms that don't need sunlight to survive. Some fungi have beneficial uses, while others cause illness and infection. Nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. But yeasts and molds also can be responsible for nail fungal infections. All of these microscopic organisms live in warm, moist environments, including swimming pools and showers. They can invade your skin through tiny invisible cuts or through a small separation between your nail and nail bed. They cause problems only if your nails are continually exposed to warmth and moisture — conditions perfect for the growth and spread of fungi. Infection with nail fungus occurs more in toenails than in fingernails because toenails are often confined in a dark, warm, moist environment inside your shoes — where fungi can thrive. Another reason may be the diminished blood circulation to the toes as compared with the fingers, which makes it harder for your body's immune system to detect and eliminate the infection.

There are currently 3 treatment modalities for this condition. They include topical medications, oral medications, which can have some serious side effects; and the newest modality which is laser therapy. At Dr. Edward R. Cohen Podiatry in Gulfport, Gautier, Laurel & Hattiesburg, Mississippi we use a laser, which focuses a concentrated beam of laser light through the nail to eradicate the fungus living under and in the nail. The procedure is performed right in our office, requires no anesthesia and is painless. Most patients require only three treatments and can once again enjoy wearing open toed shoes. If you're tired of looking at those unsightly toenails, please contact our office to determine if you are a candidate for laser therapy.