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Toenail Fungus
Toenail Fungus services offered in Brooklyn, NY
Toenail fungus is a common and highly infectious condition that can cause thickening and darkening of your nails, white marks on your nails, and a foul odor. For effective treatment of toenail fungus, visit LaSante Health Center at their office in the Prospect Lefferts Gardens area of Brooklyn, New York. The team of podiatrists offers a wide range of medications and treatments to eliminate toenail fungus and help your feet look and feel better. Set up an appointment today using the online tool or by calling the office.
Toenail Fungus Q & A
What are the signs of toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection underneath the surface of your toenails. It causes the following symptoms:
- Darkening of the nail
- Foul odor
- Collection of debris underneath the nail
- White or yellow marks on the nail plate
- Thicker nails than normal
Toenail fungus spreads quickly from one nail to another and can also spread to your fingernails and skin if left untreated.
How does toenail fungus spread?
Toenail fungus spreads in warm, damp environments like communal pools, locker rooms, and showers. The infection is caused by the same fungus as athlete’s foot and can begin as athlete’s foot and spread to your toenails or may spread from your toenails to your skin.
To reduce your risk of contracting toenail fungus or athlete’s foot, always wear sandals when using a communal pool, shower, or locker room. You should also dry your feet and between your toes thoroughly after showering or swimming and avoid wearing damp shoes and socks.
How is toenail fungus diagnosed?
When you notice symptoms of toenail fungus, the team thoroughly examines your toenails and the skin on your feet for flaking, discoloration, and thickening of the nails. They may cut a small sample of your toenail for testing to verify that you have toenail fungus.
Based on their examination and the severity of your condition, the team determines the best course of treatment to relieve your symptoms and prevent spreading the fungus to other nails or your skin.
What is the treatment for toenail fungus?
Treatment for toenail fungus may include:
- Topical or oral prescription medications
- Removal of an infected toenail
- Surgical removal of an infected nail combined with a topical medication
In most cases, oral medications are the most cost-effective method for treating toenail fungus, though they take about three months to completely clear the infection. If toenail fungus is left untreated, it can deform your toenail and cause pain and pressure when you wear shoes.
The team doesn’t recommend trying to treat toenail fungus on your own as at-home treatments rarely work, and you’re more likely to spread the infection to other nails and your skin.
If you’re seeing signs of toenail fungus, schedule a visit online or by phone now at LaSante Health Center to begin treatment.