Fungal toenail infections are a common condition frequently treated by podiatrists. According to the podiatric professionals at Potomac Podiatry Group, which has offices in Sterling, Chantilly, and Woodbridge, VA, and White Plains, Crofton, and Annapolis, MD, toenail fungal infections typically start as athlete’s foot (a skin infection) but have the potential to spread to the toenails. However, the condition may also manifest solely in the nails themselves.
The Symptoms of Nail Fungus
The classic symptoms of those who experience toenail fungus include –
- Yellowish/off-color nails.
- Odd-shaped/warped nails.
- Brittle, broken, loosened, or thickened nails.
Diagnosing Toenail Fungus
The podiatrists at the Potomac Podiatry Group will examine your toenails and, if necessary, send samples of nail clippings/nail debris to a lab that can help identify the cause of the current symptoms.
Treating Toenail Fungus
The treatment options for potential nail infections vary depending on the nature, cause, and severity of the toenail infection. Treatment options may include one or more of the following –
- Prescribing topical or oral medication.
- Debridement (which refers to the professional removal of diseased nail matter/debris) that is part of the infected nail.
In certain instances, surgery may be a suitable choice –
- An infected toenail can be removed temporarily to allow for a direct topical antifungal application.
- An infected toenail can be removed permanently if other treatments have offered insufficient relief from chronic pain.
Preventing Toenail Fungus
Proper hygiene and routine foot exams offer your best and first line of defense because clean and dry feet are a more difficult environment for fungus.
- Wash with soap/water and dry thoroughly.
- Wear shower shoes in public settings.
- Wear shoes that offer breathability and enough room for your toes.
- Change shoes, socks, or hosiery as often as needed.
- Clip toenails carefully and disinfect instruments used to cut nails. Nails should be trimmed straight across.
- Do not wear tight hosiery, as this helps keep moisture levels down.
- Wear moisture-wicking socks - synthetic fiber helps keep moisture from your feet faster than wool/cotton alternatives.
- Avoid polishing nails suspected of infection.
Contact a Leading Virginia and Maryland Podiatry Group Near You
With new technical advancements in the field, combined with simple preventive measures, toenail fungus treatment can often be successful. For additional information regarding nail fungus treatment options, contact a professional team member of the Potomac Podiatry Group, which has offices in Sterling, Chantilly, and Woodbridge, VA, and White Plains, Crofton, and Annapolis, MD. For convenience, contact us using our online form.