Treating Fungus Toenails
posted: Jan. 24, 2018.
What's the big deal? You just have a couple of yellow, thick toenails, right? Well, this condition likely is toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, and it's not pretty. Beyond that, though, toenail fungus spreads, causing itching, redness and even toenail loss. Your podiatrist in Norridge, IL, Dr. Laura Pickard, advises her patients on how to avoid this persistent infection and how to treat it if it does occur. You can have clear, attractive nails again.
How it happens
Similar to an athlete's foot infection, onychomycosis originates with a microorganism that really thrives in dark, moist environments such as:
- Enclosed shoes
- Sweaty socks
- Hot summer weather
- Pool decks and locker rooms
Additionally, if you injure your toes or cut your nails at an angle, you're more prone to toenail fungus, but don't feel embarrassed. Onychomycosis is very common in people of all ages. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that 10 percent of American teens and adults have it at some point in their lives, and they struggle to be rid of it.
Come to Norridge Foot Clinic
If you suspect you have toenail fungus, don't wait, particularly if you are diabetic or immunosuppressed because of cancer treatment or other condition. Come into the office so Dr. Pickard can take a look.
If she diagnoses onychomycosis, she may advise simple over the counter or prescription creams or ointments applied to the all of your toenails. In some cases, she may prescribe an oral anti-fungal medication or even toenail removal if the infection is severe.
Also, your podiatrist in Norridge tells her patients that this infection may be prevented by:
- Washing your feet each day and drying them carefully, particularly between the toes
- Cutting your nails straight across (not at an angle) with clean clippers
- Wearing well-ventilated shoes in warm weather
- Changing your socks daily and whenever they are sweaty
- Wearing shower sandals in the locker room and flip-flops on wet pool decks
Heal those nails
You don't have to settle for thick, yellow toenails. Get nail fungus treated properly at Norridge Foot Clinic in Norridge, IL. As our slogan says, "Put your feet in our hands." For an appointment with Dr. Pickard, contact her office staff at (773) 625-2211.