Get the facts about toenail fungus and how to treat it.
If you are dealing with nail fungus, you are no stranger to unsightly, discolored toenails; however, the longer you leave this problem, the worse it will get. So, how do you go about treating this problem and how can our very own California, MD, podiatrist Dr. Justin Pointer, treat nail fungus? Here’s what you should know,
How does fungus infect a toenail?
Fungus loves to grow in damp, dark places, and it’s highly contagious, which means that it can easily spread from one person to another. This is why it’s important to wear shoes or sandals in these public places where the fungus is often found,
- Local pools
- Gyms
- Locker rooms
- Communal showers
- Hotel bathrooms
- Certain spas and salons
Will a toenail fungal infection go away by itself?
Unfortunately, toenail fungus won’t go away without treatment. If you leave the infection untreated, the fungus will continue to spread until the nail is permanently destroyed. Fungal infections are highly contagious, so they can also spread to other nails. Therefore, if you suspect you might have nail fungus, it’s essential to turn to our California, MD, podiatrists to diagnose and treat the problem.
Can I treat toenail fungus myself?
If you search the Internet, you will find many home remedies for getting rid of a toenail fungus. While oral antifungal medications are often used to treat fungal infections, some patients don’t like the idea of taking medicine. As a result, they may choose home remedies such as tea tree oil and vinegar to see if these treat the infection.
Those with diabetes or nerve damage in their feet should not try to treat any foot problems on their own, as this can increase the risk for complications. If you have diabetes and develop a fungal infection or other issues, let our podiatrist know right away.
When should I turn to a doctor?
If the fungal infection has already led to discoloration, thickening or damage to the nail, you should turn to a foot specialist for more aggressive treatment. At this point, home remedies and over-the-counter treatments won’t be enough. It can be challenging to get rid of toenail fungus, and it’s possible it could return. It’s important that you have a foot doctor to provide you with the treatment you need when a fungal infection occurs.
How does a podiatrist treat fungal nail infections?
One of the most effective solutions for treating a toenail fungal infection is an oral anti-fungal medication prescribed by your foot doctor. This medication will be taken for several months to ensure that the fungal infection is effectively destroyed. Sometimes topical medications are prescribed; however, they aren’t usually as effective as systemic medications.
If you suspect that you might be dealing with nail fungus, our team has offices in Waldorf, Clinton, and California, MD, to serve you. Call Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle at (301) 843-9581, (301) 868-3899 or (301) 690-6044 to schedule a consultation with our podiatrists.