Toenail fungus is an ugly and uncomfortable condition. Going barefoot, wearing sandals or open shoes, and just being comfortable with yourself can become impossible when you have this problem.
This condition is also contagious, and, if you wait for it to clear up on its own, you run the risk of spreading it to others. It can also spread to other nails and even other parts of the body.
What Causes Toenail Fungus?
Many types of fungus commonly grow on the body in small amounts. The fungus that grows under toenails often starts as a case of Athlete’s foot.
When conditions are right, these fungal spoors can take hold and start colonizing areas of the body, like the bed under nails. People who get fungal infections of the skin and nails often have had exposure from:
- Swimming pools,
- Showers in gyms,
- Spas and hot tubs,
- Wearing footwear that does not breath,
- Getting a pedicure with tools that have not been properly sterilized,
- Wearing unclean socks,
- Stray cats and other infected animals.
What About Drugs for Treating Toenail Fungus?
There are drugs that can treat fungal infections systemically, but they only have about a 50% success rate. These drugs are powerful, and, unfortunately, can be toxic to the liver: A doctor must monitor a person’s liver while on these treatments, and they are inadvisable for anyone who already has liver problems.
While liver damage is a less common side effect of drug treatments, headaches, diarrhea, skin rashes and changes in the sense of taste are more common.
Will Toenail Fungus Ever Go Away On Its Own?
The chances that toenail fungus will simply clear up on its own are very low. Keeping the feet clean and dry is essential for limiting the spread, but once an infection has set in, these measures are not enough for healing the condition.
Home remedies, like vinegar and herbal treatments, also have a poor track record for curing this obstinate infection. While you are waiting for these homespun remedies to work, you are running the risk of infecting others and loosing your toenails.
Laser Treatments For Toenail Fungus
Laser treatments have been FDA approved since 2009 and have a success rate of about 85 percent. Several treatments are usually needed, but they are painless and safe. Each treatment only takes about ten to fifteen minutes. There are few reported side effects from laser treatment.
If you have been waiting for toenail fungus to go away on its own, stop waiting. Our clinic is here to help you get beyond this unsightly and confidence sapping condition. Contact us, your sandals are waiting for you.
