Comprehensive Toenail Fungus Treatment at Mitchell Foot & Ankle
Toenail fungus is a common and persistent condition, especially in elderly individuals. There are many over-the-counter treatments available, but it can be difficult to eliminate on your own.
If you’re searching for a podiatrist for toenail fungus in Chicago, IL, contact us at Mitchell Foot & Ankle. Our team is here to help you regain and maintain optimal foot health!
What Is Toenail Fungus & How Do You Contract It?
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that can affect all parts of the toenail. This includes the bed of the toenail, surface of the nail, cuticle, and/or skin surrounding the nail.
This condition usually starts out as white or yellow spots under the nail or on the surface. It can spread quickly, causing the nail to become discolored, thicken, or crumble at the edges. If left untreated, toenail fungus can also become painful and may spread to other nails or parts of your body. Some people with severe cases may struggle to walk.
Common symptoms of toenail fungus include:
- White or yellow spots on or beneath the nail (spots can expand and change the entire nail’s color to white, yellow, green, or black)
- Thickening of the nail
- The toenail becomes loose or falls off
- Brittle toenail
- Curling toenail
- Misshapen toenail
- Bad odor
Causes & Risk Factors
Fungal toenail infections occur when fungi enter a vulnerable part of the toe. This can include a cut near the nail, a crack in the nail, or a gap between the nail and the nail bed. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or damp communal areas like swimming pools, gyms, and shower rooms.
Many factors can increase your risk of developing a fungal nail infection, such as:
- Wearing sweaty or tight shoes
- A history of athlete’s foot
- Walking barefoot in public places
- Nail injuries or skin conditions like psoriasis
- Circulation problems or weakened immune system due to conditions like diabetes or HIV
- Living in a hot, humid environment
- Previous nail infections
- Toenail injury
- Smoking
Your risk of contracting toenail fungus also increases as you age. This is because elderly people are more prone to having dry, damaged nails that are vulnerable to infection.
Treating Toenail Fungus
Effective treatments for toenail fungus include topical medicines like antifungal creams, oral medications, and surgery. Surgical removal of the infected nail may be necessary in persistent cases. This allows your podiatrist to apply the antifungal medication directly to the infection beneath the nail.
Another alternative is to permanently remove the nail and the root. However, for toe fungus, doctors don’t frequently recommend this treatment option.
How to Avoid Toenail Fungus
Preventing toenail fungus is possible with a few simple precautions:
- Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry: Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Avoid walking around in sweaty shoes for long periods.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Choose breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks. Avoid wearing the same shoes two days in a row and allow them to dry out completely between wears.
- Protect Your Feet in Public Areas: Wear shower shoes or sandals in communal areas like pools, gyms, and locker rooms.
- Trim Your Nails Properly: Cut your toenails straight across and avoid trimming them too short.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share towels, nail clippers, shoes, or socks with others.
- Be Wary of Nail Salons: If you enjoy pedicures, try giving yourself one at home or only visit reputable salons that disinfect their tools after each use. You can also bring your own tools and ask the nail technicians to use them instead.
- Use Antifungals as a Preventative Measure: Use antifungal powder or spray on your feet and inside your shoes.
Podiatrists for Toenail Fungal Treatment
At Mitchell Foot & Ankle, we provide the highest standard of care for our patients. Our podiatrists offer comprehensive toenail fungus treatment. We’re skilled in diagnosing and treating these types of conditions as well as athlete’s foot, bunions, infections, and more.
We understand that each patient’s needs are unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of podiatric services to address all your foot and ankle needs. We also stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in podiatric medicine to offer the best care possible.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you’re looking for a foot doctor for toenail fungus treatment, look no further than Mitchell Foot & Ankle. Our commitment to patient satisfaction makes us the top choice for treating all foot-related health conditions in Chicago.
Don’t let toenail fungus affect your quality of life. Contact Mitchell Foot & Ankle today to schedule an appointment with our team!