Fungal Nail Treatment That Works

What You Need To Know

Understanding fungal toenail infections and how we treat them.

Understanding Fungal Toenail Infections

A toenail fungus will get under the surface of the nail where it takes hold and may even spread to other toenails. Left untreated, the infection may make it difficult to walk and work. The thicker toenails are hard to trim and make it painful to wear shoes.

The condition of fungus nails is well known to many. The changes in the nails are actually due to a local infection of both bacteria and fungus that cause the discoloration, thickness and debris to collect under the nails. Toenail fungus causes many unpleasant symptoms including a change in toenail appearance, texture and color, nail thickening, unpleasant odor, debris noticeable under the nail plate, and white marks on the nail plate.

Fungal nail is contagious and you are vulnerable in public areas like swimming pools, showers, spas and locker rooms. People with diabetes or who suffer from circulatory problems or immune deficiency are prone to toenail fungus.

Home treatments including over-the-counter antifungal creams may ease the symptoms of toenail fungus, but full healing can only be obtained through a podiatrist’s care. After taking a culture from the nail to determine the cause of the problem, we will treat it with topical and/or oral medication. If you are noticing changes in your toenails, schedule an evaluation so we can identify the cause and start you on the right treatment.

Our Fungal Nail Treatment Options

Foot and Ankle Specialists provides a number of treatment options for patients experiencing fungal nail conditions. We realize that every patient is unique and that treatments can’t be one size fits all. Our physicians work hard to identify the best custom fungal nail soaks to meet the patient’s individual needs. Soaks are compounded based on the type and severity of the infection and include dosage and application instructions.

The PinPointe FootLaser uses a laser beam to go through the nail plate to eliminate the infection that causes nail deformity at its source. The laser heats and kills the germs causing the fungus without harming healthy tissue. The treatment is virtually painless, can be done in the office without anesthesia, and is FDA approved. Over 80% of patients treated with PinPointe have shown substantial improvement and most fungal nails are completely cured.

The Erchonia Lunula laser is a non-thermal, or cold laser, designed for treating onychomycosis. The patient feels no heat or sensation. Treatment takes about 12 minutes per foot with no downtime and no interaction with systemic medications. Lunula is available in Glenview, Mount Prospect, and Libertyville.

KeryFlex Nail Restoration is a painless, in-office application that restores the appearance of natural nails using a composite resin. Application is completed at a subsequent visit after a consultation determines if you are a candidate. Contact us to discuss which treatment option is right for you.