Laser treatment for toenail fungus in Chicago is offered by Laser Nail Therapy. Toenail fungus can be found anywhere and everywhere. Sometimes people might not even realize they are infected. Fungus spores are present in our everyday environment. People who typically have a weakened immune system, people with diabetes, athletes, and elderly people are more likely to be infected. About 10% of the U.S. population is infected. And the majority of these people are over 50 years old.
Toenail Fungus Symptoms
Toenail fungus symptoms can vary for each person. Some people might not even know they have a toenail fungus infection because they do not know how it can initially present itself. Below is a list of toenail fungus symptoms that you should look for if you believe you are infected:
- Discolored toenails
- Thickening of toenails
- Irregular nail shape
- Brittle toenails
- Lifted Toenails
The discoloration of toenails varies for each person. The most common discoloration is the yellowing of the toenail. This can typically begin as a small dot and then spread to your entire nail. Some people might not even know that the small discoloration is a symptom of a toenail fungus infection. Other discolorations include white streaks or cloudiness of the nail. Some nails can even become brown or black.
Other nails can start to become thick. This makes it very difficult to trim your toenails. It can also lead to an irregular nail shape as you are not able to maintain your nails because they are too thick. Some people will soak their toenails in warm water to soften the nails and trim them down as best as they can. If your nails start to become thick, this can mean you have a toenail fungus infection.
People also experience brittle toenails. These toenails will break easily and sometimes even look like they are flaky. Some people can even experience their toenails being lifted off the nail bed. These are all indications that you have a toenail fungus.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should schedule a consultation with our Chicago Toenail Doctor who specializes in the treatment of toenail fungus.
Treatments for Toenail Fungus
There are different treatment options for toenail fungus. Typically, people will first try out home remedies or topical solutions. Home remedies are not effective in curing or getting rid of toenail fungus because there is no scientific evidence that they help. People will write blogs suggesting that soaking your nails in tea tree oil helps get rid of toenail fungus. This is not true. In extreme cases, people will try soaking their toes in bleach or other household cleaning products. This is not recommended at all, as you can injure the surrounding skin and cause more damage to your feet. Household cleaning products should never be used as treatment options.
Topical solutions are more commonly used. These are typically purchased at any pharmacy over the counter; there is no prescription needed. Although topical solutions have a very low success rate. It is typically between five and ten percent. Some people go over a year with little to no results. The reason why topical solutions do not work as well is that they do not penetrate the nail completely. As a result, they do not kill the fungus that is under your nail. Therefore, you are not fully cured.
Another treatment option is oral medication. Oral medication does have a higher cure rate than topical solutions. Its cure rate is about sixty percent. Although oral medication is not recommended, as it can cause liver toxicity. You would need to take this medication for a long period of time. While taking the medication, you also need constant blood tests to check if your liver is being damaged. It is very tedious work.
Can Toenail Fungus cause pain?
Toenail fungus infections may not cause any immediate pain or discomfort, but leaving them untreated can have serious consequences. Over time, the nails can thicken significantly, making it uncomfortable to wear shoes and walk. In severe cases, the nails can even become deformed, leading to further complications.
Apart from being uncomfortable, fungal nail infections can also cause the nails to lift off the nail bed. This creates a gap where bacteria can start growing, leading to additional infections that are often painful and emit a foul odor.
Suppose you are experiencing toenail pain or an unpleasant odor despite taking proper hygiene measures. In that case, it is crucial to schedule a visit with Laser Nail Therapy for a thorough examination of your condition. Delaying treatment can cause the infection to spread to other nails, leading to further discomfort and possible complications.
Our skilled physicians at Laser Nail Therapy offer safe and effective laser treatments for toenail fungus. Book an appointment today to start your journey toward healthy, clear nails!
What to do in Chicago
There are many things to do while visiting Chicago. It is among the largest cities in the United States, and it is known for its bold architecture. One of the most popular activities is taking the 90-minute Chicago River Architecture Tour, where they introduce Chicago’s legendary architecture. This boat ride goes through the heart of the city, so it is a unique way to see the city itself. Another fun activity is visiting Millennium Park, where the infamous Cloud Gate statue resides. While visiting Chicago, you should also make a visit to the Skydeck Chicago. It is an observation deck made of glass that overlooks Chicago.
Besides the architecture in Chicago, there are many museums to visit in the city. There is the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, and many more. There is so much to take in when visiting the city. And while visiting, make sure to stop by and see one of our doctors who treats toenail fungus infections with laser treatment.
Which demographic is at a higher risk of developing toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. While the fungus can be contracted through a variety of means, one common way is by walking barefoot in public showers or locker rooms. However, not everyone who comes into contact with toenail fungus will develop the infection. Individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to toenail fungus, including those who suffer from diabetes, AIDS, cancer, and who take immunosuppressive medications such as steroids.
Athletes are more prone to toenail fungus due to frequent exposure to moist environments and repeated trauma to the nail during workouts, weakening the nail and creating an opportunity for the fungus to thrive.
Is it possible to contract toenail fungus from a pedicure?
Toenail fungus can be contracted from nail salons if proper hygiene and sanitary conditions are not maintained. Fungi can easily accumulate in the cracks and crevices of basins and equipment, and if not properly cleaned, can be easily transferred from one customer to another.
As a customer, it is important to be vigilant and only frequent salons that uphold strict cleaning regimens to reduce the chances of toenail fungus being contracted. It is also advisable to avoid salons that lack good sanitation practices altogether. By taking these simple precautions, customers can greatly reduce their risk of contracting toenail fungus from a nail salon.
Can toenail fungus spread from one person to another?
Toenail fungus, also known as Onychomycosis, is a highly contagious infection that can easily spread from one person to another. Those who have this condition are at a higher risk of transmitting the fungus to others. It’s important to note that even after successful treatment, there is still a risk of re-infection. To prevent the recurrence of toenail fungus, we suggest taking some basic precautions such as using anti-fungal sprays for both feet and shoes, keeping feet clean and dry, and changing socks on a daily basis.
Can my toenails grow back once the fungus is treated?
Following the treatment, you can anticipate the natural growth of your toenail to replace the fungal nail with a healthy one.
Can toenail fungus be eliminated without treatment?
Generally, toenail fungus cannot be expected to resolve itself spontaneously and necessitates some form of treatment to effectively eliminate it.
Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus in Chicago
Laser treatment is the most effective and safest treatment option. It has the highest cure rate. It is the safest and most effective treatment option. Also, most people can get this treatment done. It has no side effects. Laser treatment also has no recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after the treatment. There’s also no pain associated with laser treatment.
Our Chicago nail doctors who specialize in toenail fungus use the PinPointe FootLaser. This laser has the highest cure rate on the market. It has a cure rate of 85% after just one treatment! The PinPointe laser is FDA-cleared and typically only requires one treatment.
Our Chicago offices have licensed podiatrists who will consult with you and perform the laser toenail fungus treatment. During the initial consultation, the doctor explains how the laser treatment works. They will also explain any post-treatment care that is advised. And of course, they will answer any additional questions or concerns you may have.
Laser treatment for toenail fungus is the most effective because it kills all the fungus that is present on your nail and nail bed without causing any pain or discomfort. Although it does take about six to nine months to see your full, clear, healthy nail after the laser treatment.
Call us to schedule a free consultation with one of our Chicago nail doctors at (800) 672-0625 or visit our website for more information.
