Dealing with a yellowing toenail fungal infection? We can help!
It’s summertime and living might not be as easy if you have a toenail fungus. Sometimes people don’t always realize they have a toenail fungus until it’s too late and they are dealing with a thick, yellow, brittle toenail that hurts when wearing shoes. If this sounds like you then you may want to turn to our Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Kensington and Silver Spring, MD, podiatrists for care.
Of course, if you are a healthy individual you may choose to deal with the problem by yourself first. There is nothing wrong with this; in fact, many people choose to tackle toenail fungus at home. After all, there are a variety of over-the-counter products from which to choose, and a pharmacist can answer any questions you might have about the different products. Antifungal medications often come in the form of creams, nail polishes, and sprays.
Just remember that toenail fungal treatments take time and won’t work overnight. In fact, it can take anywhere from six to 12 weeks to cure the infection with at-home care and even then you won’t know whether or not the fungus is gone until the nail grows back clear.
When should I see a doctor?
If you having been tackling your toenail fungus for months and aren’t seeing results, or if the problem is getting worse then it’s time to see your Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Kensington and Silver Spring, MD foot doctor for more aggressive treatment. If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system it is particularly important that you seek medical care if you experience any foot problems, as untreated issues could lead to serious complications.
What can a podiatrist do to treat my toenail fungus?
There are a couple of options. Since sprays and creams can’t always fully get behind the nail to get rid of the entire fungal infection sometimes the best approach is to prescribe an oral antifungal medication, which will work systemically to kill the infection. Again, you will only notice results once the nail grows out in about 3-4 months.
Those with severe or persistent fungal infections may benefit from laser fungal treatment, in which a laser is directed over the affected nail to heat up and destroy the fungus. Usually, the infection can be treated in just one session and you’ll notice your nail growing out clear in a few months.
Living in Olney, Camp Springs/Clinton, Kensington and Silver Spring, MD, and dealing with a toenail fungal infection? If you’ve been fighting this infection with no success than it’s time to turn to the experts at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland. Call our office.