What does cause the Nail Fungus?
Fungal nail infections are typically caused by a kind of fungi called dermatophytes, though certain yeasts and molds may also contribute to the nail fungus. Nail fungi usually grows in warm and humid environments such as spas, swimming pools, public showers and locker areas, walking around public areas barefoot increases your risk of developing nail fungus.
The most apparent signs and symptoms of this particular fungal infection are the physical appearance and attributes of the affected toenails. From an appearance standpoint, they will look discolored, thickened, and dull. Additionally, you will find that the toenails crumble easily and are probably quite ragged along their edges. Depending on the severity of the infection, the nails may separate from their respective nail beds.
Oral Medication: To get this medication under prescription, which significantly lowers the cost, you will need a doctor’s referral to get a sample taken of your nail. This takes approx. 4 weeks to get a result,approx. 50% of results come back with a false negative. This means that you may have an infection but is showing a negative result. If you do get a positive result then this treatment is an option for you. Thesuccess rate is approx. 65-75% There a potential harmful effects of the medication which include liver toxicity, you will need to discuss this with your Doctor.
Laser nail treatment is the state-of-the-art way to address fungal nail infections. This method is safe, painless, and without any known side effects. Patients are pleased that treatment sessions are quick and easy. If we recommend this course of action, it will be important for you to understand it will take some time for your body to produce new, clear nail tissue to replace the old, infected fungal nails. The goal with laser treatment is to treat the nail bed so a new, healthy toenail grows out.
How does the Laser Toenail Fungus Treatment work?
The toenail fungus laser treatment works by using laser light that passes through the nail and the surrounding tissue. The laser light is absorbed by pigment in the fungi, which causes the pigment to heat up, and this heat kills or damages the fungal organism. Your toenail will not fall off as a result of this treatment. You will not notice a clear nail immediately since it can take at least 3 months for your clear nail to begin to emerge and 6 to 12 months for the entire nail to grow out.
How long does the laser toenail fungus treatment take?
The laser toenail fungus treatment usually takes only 30 minutes. Typically we schedule four to six treatments depending on severity spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart
Will I be able to walk after the Laser Nail Fungus Treatment?
The laser nail fungus treatment does not harm living tissue. Patients can simply have the procedure done, and then walk right out and go back to their normal activity.
Is the laser toenail fungus treatment painful?
Most patients feel no lasting pain. Some may feel a warming sensation but the temperature does not get much above normal body temperature. No anesthesia is needed for the laser toenail fungus treatment. Your comfort and safety is our priority.
Who should not have laser toenail fungus treatment?
If you are pregnant or have skin cancer you are not a candidate for this treatment.
