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Another name for fungal toenail infection is onychomycosis. Fungal toenail infection occurs when fungi gain access to your toenail. Usually, it gets into your toenail and soft tissue when there is a break in your toes like a minor wound. It usually affect the tip of the nail first and then spreads backwards. One or more nails may be affected. Fungi doesn’t only affect your toenail, it may also affect your fingernails, grow between the toes and affect your skin especially at the sole,making it appear dry and scaly.
Atlanta fungal toenail infection may cause your toenails to become thick, crumble, have streaks or spots, have a yellow, brown or white color. Fungi may cause you to lose your toenail. Not all discolored toenails are caused by fungi.
Causes
People with sweaty feet have an increased risk of getting fungal infection. Fungi likes to thrive in damp, moist dark places like in public showers and gyms, thus people who often use these public places and have a break in their skin may easily pick up fungal infections.The condition can also spread from one toe to another, or to other parts of the body.
Fungal toenail infections are very common and people with either diabetes or circulatory problems are at higher risk of getting infected.Toenails may also appear discolored due to trauma, other systemic diseases or some medications, hence it is necessary for the ankle and foot physician to take a piece of the infected toenail, and send it to the lab to be tested for fungus.
Treatment
Treatment for toenail fungus may include topical antifungals, oral antifungal medications, laser and nail remover.
If the fungus is caught early, a topical medication may be helpful. The topical antifungal medication is in the form of a nail polish which is applied to the affected toenails daily. Since nail fungus causes the toenails to be thick, the podiatrist will need to file down the toenails regularly so the topical medication may penetrate the nail and treat the fungus effectively.
The most effective method of treating Atlanta toenail fungus is with an oral medication which is prescribed by the podiatrist. This oral medication is taken daily for several months and also warrants the need of a liver function test.
Laser can also be used to treat nail fungus. The laser used penetrates the nail to kill the fungus.
In rare cases, patients opt for the toenail to be removed.
If you notice any discoloration in your toenails or think you may have toenail fungal infection, it is recommended to speak with our podiatrist because chronic or severe fungal infection may take several months to get rid of. The podiatrist at our Atlanta, Little five points location will be glad to evaluate and properly treat you.
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