Fungal Nail Treatment That Works

What You Need To Know

Understanding fungal nail infections and how our team treats them.

Understanding Toenail Fungus

Are your toenails thick and discolored? Do you have pain or are your toenails cracked and falling off? Have you noticed a white or yellow dot beneath the tip of your nail? If so, you may be experiencing a toenail fungal infection. The changes in the nails are due to a local infection of both bacteria and fungus that cause the discoloration, thickness, and debris to collect under the nails.

Fungal nails are often caused by yeast, molds, or fungi and are sometimes associated with athlete’s foot. They may enter the skin through microscopic, invisible cuts, or via a small space between your nail and nail bed. Warm, moist environments are a thriving place for fungus to grow, which is why the infections typically take place in the toenails rather than fingernails. Infections can also spread by sharing grooming tools, walking barefoot in public areas, and poor foot hygiene.

Toenail fungus is widely prevalent, with about one in every ten Americans affected, roughly 23 million people. Infections can be complicated to treat, but they will worsen if left untreated. If you or someone you know is experiencing toenail fungus, seek out the help of a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment regime.

Detecting fungal infections can be challenging. At Integrative Foot and Ankle Centers of Washington, our treatment begins with a detailed pathological, microbiological, biomechanical, and vascular evaluation of the toes and nails, followed by a comprehensive plan tailored to you.

Treatment Options and Prevention

We offer a number of treatment options for patients experiencing fungal nail conditions. We realize that every patient is unique and that treatments cannot be one size fits all. Depending on your symptoms and the severity of the infection, your plan may include laser therapy, custom antifungal soaks compounded based on the type and severity of the infection, Tolcylen Antifungal and Nail Renewal Solution, oral antifungal medication, or minimally invasive nail procedures. In some extreme cases, toenail removal may be necessary.

Laser treatment addresses one of the biggest challenges in treating fungal nails: getting medication under the nail plate to the source of the infection. Topical medication is reportedly only about 33% effective because it cannot penetrate the nail. Devices such as PinPointe FootLaser and the Erchonia Lunula Laser target the infection through the nail without harming healthy tissue. These treatments are virtually painless, can be done in the office without anesthesia, and are FDA cleared.

For patients whose nails have been damaged by fungus or trauma, KeryFlex Nail Restoration is a painless, in-office application that restores the appearance of natural nails using a flexible, durable composite resin. Candidacy is determined at an initial consultation.

Prevention matters too. Avoid sharing clippers or nail files, clean your feet, shoes, and socks regularly, and do not go barefoot in public showers or gyms. Contact our office today to schedule your evaluation and start a plan built around your nails.