Toenail Fungus

Facts, Myths and Treatment

I literally field questions about toenail fungus every day from my patients. You are not alone if you have toenail fungus. It is quite common!

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a fungal infection underneath the surface of the nail. It is characterized by a progressive change in the color and thickness of the nails. Often times the fungus has been present for a long time before the patient notices symptoms, so it is important to see a podiatrist at the very first sign of change in the nail. The infection is capable of spreading to other toenails, the skin or even the fingernails. The resulting thicker nails can become difficult to trim and may make walking in shoes quite painful.

Fungus is found virtually everywhere, and toenails are especially vulnerable to fungus around damp areas where you typically walk barefoot—swimming pools, locker rooms and showers. Other contributing factors to having toenail fungus include injury to the nail, circulatory problems such as diabetes, or excessive perspiration.

Treatment Options for Toenail Fungus

Contrary to popular belief, there are no effective home remedies for nail fungus. Home remedies that tout the treatment of nail fungus range from the cure-all tea tree oil to less safe remedies such as soaking the feet in bleach—which is a very bad idea. None of these have been shown to cure the fungus.

There are, however, new advances in medical treatment to combat toenail fungus. Oral anti-fungal medications have the best results, but I am seeing some good results from a line of topical products that we carry in our clinic by Bako. The Bako (link) products involve a two-part treatment. The first part is the application of a nail gel that softens up the nail. The second part is a topical anti-fungal medication that penetrates through the then softened nail to treat the fungus.

In some extreme cases, surgical treatment may be necessary to remove the infected nail so that we can treat the area properly.

Trying to solve a fungal infection on your own can lead to frustration and more problems. There are treatment options available, so contact me if you think you have a fungal infection. You’ll enjoy wearing sandals this summer without worrying about your nails!

–Dr. Frank, 541-385-7129