Fungal nails can prevent you from going barefoot or wearing your favorite pair of sandals. But thanks to modern treatment techniques, the issue is easy to correct. At Total Family Foot Care, Terry Wright, DPM, and Jacquelyn Perry, DPM, treat fungal nails using advanced methods, including medical-grade lasers. To make an appointment at the practice in Fort Worth or Arlington, Texas, call the nearest office or click the online booking feature today.
request an appointmentWhat are fungal nails?
Fungal nails occur when your toenails develop a fungal infection. Often, the infection begins as a small white or yellow spot. Over time, the fungus penetrates your nails, spreads to your other toes, and causes your nails to change color, thicken, and crumble.
Fungal nails aren’t always a serious health problem, but if you have diabetes or another condition that affects your circulation, they increase the risk of more serious issues. If you’ve tried various over-the-counter treatments without seeing an improvement in your symptoms, make an appointment at Total Family Foot Care today.
What are the symptoms of fungal nails?
Telltale signs of fungal toenails include nails that are:
- Brittle, crumbly, or ragged
- Thick
- Dark brown or yellow
- Distorted looking
As the fungal infection spreads, you might also notice a foul odor emanating from your shoes and socks.
When should I visit the podiatrist for treatment of fungal nails?
Most cases of fungal nails respond to over-the-counter ointments and lotions. If your symptoms persist, get worse, or affect the condition of your nails, contact Total Family Foot Care. That’s especially true if you have diabetes or another condition that affects circulation to your lower extremities.
Who is at risk of fungal nails?
Anyone can experience fungal nails, but several factors may increase your risk, including:
- Being middle-aged or older
- Having circulatory issues
- Sweating heavily
- A history of athlete’s foot
- Having an underlying skin or nail condition
You’re also more likely to experience fungal nails if you walk around barefoot in a public facility, like a sauna or a locker room.
How are fungal nails diagnosed?
At Total Family Foot Care, Dr. Wright and Dr. Perry diagnose fungal nails by reviewing your health history, asking about your symptoms, and examining your toes. During the exam, your provider takes a few clippings and sends them to a laboratory for analysis. Technicians at the lab can determine the type of fungus you have, which can help guide treatment.
How are fungal nails treated?
At Total Family Foot Care, Dr. Wright and Dr. Perry offer several types of treatment for fungal nails. If you have a mild infection, you might benefit from oral antifungal medication, prescription nail polish, or prescription nail cream.
If the infection spreads to several of your toes, your provider might recommend an accurate diagnosis via a biopsy.
To learn more about the treatment options for fungal nails, make an appointment at Total Family Foot Care by calling the nearest office or clicking the online scheduling tool today.