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What is Toenail Fungus?
A fungus is an organism that thrives in warm moist areas. Toenail fungus is a common problem that can affect people of all ages, although it most commonly affects individuals who are older. If you think you may be suffering from toenail fungus in Chicago, IL (California Avenue), keep reading to learn more!
Toenail fungus often begins as an infection in the skin called tinea pedis (also known as athlete’s foot). The fungus often starts under the nail fold at the end of the nail. Over time, the fungus grows underneath the nail and causes changes to its appearance, such as a yellow or brownish discoloration. It can also cause thickening and deformity of the toenail.
Many people have difficulty with their toenails and need assistance in caring for them. Our experienced podiatrists can diagnose the cause of toenail problems and recommend treatments to cure it.
Treatment for Toenail Fungus
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter (nonprescription) products haven’t solved your problem, our podiatrist may suggest a combination of prescription drugs and other approaches. Even if you find relief from your symptoms, repeat infections are common.
What Medications Treat Toenail Fungus?
- Oral antifungal drugs. Our doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal drug. Studies show the most effective oral antifungals are terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part. You typically take this type of drug for six to 12 weeks, but you won’t see the end result of treatment until the nail completely grows back. It may take four months or longer to eliminate an infection. Treatment success rates with these drugs appear to be lower in adults over age 65. Treatment success seems to improve when you combine oral and topical antifungal therapies.
- Medicated nail cream. Our doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream, which you rub into your infected nails after soaking. These creams may work better if you first thin the nails. This helps the medication get through the hard nail surface to the underlying fungus. To thin nails, you apply an over-the-counter (nonprescription) lotion containing urea. Alternatively, our doctor may thin the surface of the nail (debride) with a file or other tool.
- Medicated nail polish. Our doctor may prescribe an antifungal nail polish called ciclopirox (Penlac). You paint it on your infected nails and surrounding skin once daily. After seven days, you wipe the piled-on layers off with alcohol and begin fresh applications. You may need to use this type of nail polish daily for a year.
Call Us Today to Find Out More About Toenail Fungus in Chicago, IL (California Avenue)!
Over 200,000 patients have found relief at Weil Foot & Ankle, and we’re confident we can help you, too. Your feet will thank you! For additional information on toenail fungus treatment or to schedule an appointment, call Weil Foot & Ankle at (847) 393-4276. With 14 podiatry offices in and around the Chicago area, including Arlington Heights, Bannockburn, Chicago, Des Plaines, Glenview, Lemont, Libertyville, Oak Park, Roselle, & Tinley Park, Illinois (IL), there is sure to be a podiatry office near you!
5-Star Ingrown Toenail Treatment In Arlington Heights, Bannockburn, Chicago, Des Plaines, Glenview, Lemont, Libertyville, Oak Park, Roselle, & Tinley Park, Illinois (IL).