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How to Treat Your Toenail Fungus

So, what's the big deal about a couple of thick, yellow toenails? Frankly, these symptoms of toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, are more than unsightly. They can cause bigger podiatric problems both for you and for your loved ones. At Paoli and Center City FootCare Centers in Philadelphia, your foot doctors, Dr. Robert Cohen, Dr. Ushma Sheth, and Dr. Ira Meyers, know how to prevent and treat this stubborn condition so you have healthy, attractive feet.

Symptoms of toenail fungus

Infected toenails usually are thick, yellowish to brown and often begin pulling away from the nail bed. This malady may spread to other toenails and even to the fingernails and other parts of the body if left untreated.

The American Academy of Dermatology states that people with weakened immune systems are very susceptible to onychomycosis. However, of the 10 million Americans who exhibit symptoms, most are in overall good health.

How to treat onychomycosis

If your symptoms persist, see your foot doctor in Philadelphia. He or she will examine your nails and feet and may prescribe an antifungal cream or oral medication. These interventions, along with changes in personal hygiene habits, can heal fungal toenails. However, the process takes time, and frequently, the problem comes back.

As such, Paoli and Center City FootCare Centers offer inventive laser toenail treatments. Using a Class IV, in-office laser light, your podiatrist will treat all ten of your toenails, symptomatic or not. The process requires more than one application; your podiatrist will determine how best and how frequently to treat your nails.

In most cases, the laser effectively kills the fungus organism at the cellular level and keeps it from returning. Painless and quick, laser toenail treatments have grown in popularity in recent years.

How to prevent onychomycosis

Please note that toenail fungus thrives in dark, moist environments such as sweaty socks and closed toe shoes and sneakers. So, to reduce your chances of having this stubborn problem, your foot doctor advises:

  • Changing your socks and shoes daily
  • Washing your feet with soap and water daily and drying them thoroughly
  • Cutting your nails straight across with a clean clippers
  • Wearing shower sandals in public pool areas, locker rooms, and showers
  • Refraining from sharing towels, shoes, and nail clippers with other people, even members of your family

The American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine suggests using anti-fungal foot powder in shoes and socks during the hot weather or whenever your feet may become very sweaty (such as before a gym workout).

Yellow nails?

Be done with this annoying and unhealthy problem. For expert help, contact your friends at Paoli and Center City FootCare Centers. There are two convenient locations. For the Philadelphia, PA, office, phone (215) 545-0388, and for the Paoli, PA, location, call (610) 647-0400.


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