What Are My Options for Fungal Nail Treatment

Fungal nails are a common condition, affecting roughly 14% of the general population. However, fungal nails are often difficult to diagnose.

If your toenails have become discoloured, you notice a smell emanating from them, or they appear brittle, you may have some form of nail fungus.

As it develops, fungal growth may warp your toenails and, if left untreated, cause discomfort and pain that may impact your daily life. However, there are several different kinds of treatments that may be available to you, such as laser fungal nail treatment, oral fungal nail treatment, or nail removals.

For personalised advice for nail conditions, contact our team at Midland Podiatry today.

Signs and Symptoms of Fungal Nails

There are many different types of nail fungus, each requiring a different form of treatment. There are several signs that you may have fungal nails.

One early sign of fungal nails is discolouration. Look out for white spots or streaks across the nail, as this means fungus may be developing. If left untreated, the fungus may darken the colour of your nail overall due to debris buildup under the nail.

Your nails may develop a thickened or rough texture or become brittle to the touch.

Your nails may also start to change in size and shape. They may press more into the sides of your skin or shoes, potentially causing pain and discomfort and possibly producing distinct smells.

What Causes Fungal Nails?

There are many different causes of nail fungus, though circulation and immune health may have a significant impact.

Age may impact both your circulation and immune health, increasing your chances of developing nail fungus. Conditions like diabetes may also impact your circulation and make it easier for your nails to begin developing fungus.

Different skin conditions, consistent nail or skin injuries, and heavy sweating may also affect your nails and fungal growth.

Aside from these things, there are some easier preventative measures you may be able to take. Wearing shoes in communal or damp areas like swimming pools and showers may help reduce the risk of fungal infections.

If you go to nail salons, you should ensure you go to one that appropriately sterilises its equipment. It is important to try and avoid areas with high levels of bacteria to prevent fungal nails from developing.

Types of Fungal Nail Treatments

There are many treatments for fungal nails. Knowing the different options can be important when speaking to your podiatrist. Remember, your podiatrist aims to assess your nail condition, give you a diagnosis, and then create a tailored treatment plan that is most appropriate for you.

1. Laser Treatment

Laser treatment is a newer process that is showing promising results. Two kinds of laser treatment may be used on fungal nails: Hot and cold.

The hot treatment is utilised to heat the nail to remove the nail fungus underneath, though this may be painful without the proper care. The nail is heated and allowed to cool before applying heat again in an effort to reduce discomfort and burn away the infection.

The cold treatment is utilised to reduce nail fungus. This typically causes less distress to patients. This treatment uses two lasers to reduce the fungus and is also completed in quicker sessions than with a hot laser.

With either form, laser treatment requires multiple sessions and may take up to two months to start showing results.

2. Oral Treatment

Oral medications may be prescribed for more severe fungal nail infections and work to regrow your nails. You will need to be referred to your doctor to pursue this treatment, though it generally has a higher success rate than over-the-counter topical treatments.

These treatments typically help you regrow nails without fungal infection, slowly replacing the infected sections of the nail. It usually takes up to three months to complete your nail fungal treatment.

3. Removal Treatment

If none of the above treatments work, it may be best to consider nail removal. Nails may be removed through surgery or chemical application. If your nails are monitored correctly for infection, they will most likely grow back from these treatments, though results will vary depending on your unique situation. Nails may take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to grow back completely.

Which Treatment is The Best for My Fungal Nails?

If your toenails are causing you pain or discomfort, it is always best to consult with a trusted podiatrist to find the most appropriate treatment.

Fungal nails may be treated in a variety of ways depending on the severity of your case. It is always best to get a professional opinion to determine which treatment suits you.

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