Toenail fungus is an unsightly problem that often prevents sufferers from going barefoot or wearing open-toed shoes. While there are several available treatments for this condition, including nail lacquers, topical antifungal medications, oral anti-fungal drugs and surgery, none have shown as much promise as laser therapy. Laser treatment for toenail fungus involves using focused light to kill the dermatophytes that cause fungal infections. As the infected nails grow out after the treatment, the patient sees clearing of the fungal infection.
The Pros of Laser Treatments
The pros of laser treatments are many and include those detailed below.
Effective
While treatment success rates vary, studies on the FDA-approved Astanza Revolution laser show higher clearance rates than any other laser on the market. In one study of nearly 100 patients, 95% of those treated with this laser system saw significant improvement within a 3 to 12 month period. This is much more effective than commonly used topical medications like antifungal lacquer. This medication must be used daily for up to a year and is still much less effective than a one-time laser treatment.
Safe
Laser treatment is FDA-approved and very safe. It has fewer potential side effects than oral antifungal medications. While also potentially effective, oral drugs are reserved for only the most serious cases because they have potential side effects ranging from headaches, skin rashes, loss of appetite and nausea to organ damage including kidney and liver problems. In fact, patients with heart failure, liver disease and other conditions often cannot use these oral medications because of the risks. Laser treatment, on the other hand, has shown no adverse effects in any of the clinical trials done to date.
Noninvasive
Unlike surgical toenail removal, another possible treatment for fungal infection, laser treatment is completely noninvasive. It simply requires exposing the infected nails to intense bursts of light. There are no needles, and there is no need to cut the nail or the surrounding skin.
Painless
The laser procedure is completely painless and requires no anesthetic or numbing cream. The sensation varies from patient to patient, but common patient perceptions of the procedure include the following:
- Mild sensation of warmth.
- Slight pressure on the nail.
- Snapping sensation.
There is no pain or discomfort. There may be a slight redness in the treated area, comparable to a mild sunburn that goes away within 24 to 48 hours.
Time Efficient
The laser procedure is usually completed in less than 15 minutes, and most patients leave the office 30 minutes after arriving. The aftercare procedure is straightforward and easy to complete. It simply requires appropriate hygiene and use of an antifungal cream.
In short, there are many pros of laser treatments for toenail fungus. The procedure is quick, painless, safe and effective without many of the drawbacks of other commonly used treatments.
