Why You Shouldn't Ignore Nail Fungus
Your toenails provide exactly the kind of warm, dark, damp environment where various fungal organisms like dermatophytes are likely to take root and flourish. That’s why toenail fungus problems are so common, especially as you get older. A case of toenail fungus can leave your nails discolored or misshapen.
It might be tempting to just keep your toenail fungus troubles hidden inside your footwear. If no one can see your toes, does it matter if your nails are unappealing due to a fungal infection? Yes,t it does matter — because untreated nail fungus can result in lasting damage to your nails.
At Town Center Foot & Ankle of Kingwood and Atascocita, Texas, Dr. Stephen Eichelsdorfer and our team help you resolve foot fungus problems, including toenail fungal infections, before you develop complications. Here is what you need to know.
Risks of toenail fungus
You’re more likely to develop toenail fungus problems if you have chronic skin conditions, diabetes, or heavy sweating tendencies. When you pick up a toenail fungus infection, you need to take steps to clear it up. Otherwise, you could risk additional nail and foot health complications.
For one thing, toenail fungus can spread from one of your nails to your others. You can also pass the infection to people by sharing “barefoot spaces” like showers. And, you’re at greater risk of a fungal skin infection if you have an ongoing fungal nail infection.
Fungal infections tend to worsen over time, and your nails can become badly discolored and may grow abnormally thick. Nails suffering from fungal infections are often fragile and can develop serious and lasting cracks. The affected nail could also start to separate from the underlying nail bed.
Resolving your fungal infection
Toenail fungus problems can be hard to eradicate, seeming to resolve and then reappearing with renewed symptoms. You’re likely to need professional help when it comes to getting rid of your toenail fungus.
At Town Center Foot & Ankle, our team of skilled podiatrists knows how to resolve fungal infections for good. You benefit from professional-grade treatment options, including:
- Safe and effective nail restoration with the PinPointe™ FootLaser system
- Medicated antifungal solution to discreetly treat the problem
- Oral or topical antifungal medications
With our support, you can get rid of toenail fungus before it becomes a more serious problem.
For expert care and treatment for toenail fungus of all types, get in touch with Dr. Eichelsdorfer and the Town Center Foot & Ankle team today. Request an appointment online, or call now to book.