The best treatment for toenail fungus in San Diego, CA, is laser treatment. Laser Therapy has been used effectively for almost ten years. The FDA approved this treatment in 2010. The PinPointe Foot Laser ™ was the first to be approved in the US as well as Canada for the treatment of toenail fungus.
Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungal infection is hard to treat and is likely to return if not treated effectively. Laser therapy is non-invasive, safe, effective, and painless. Patients often report the sensation of warmth in the treatment area.
Through the FDA’s clinical study, their results found the PinPointe Foot Laser ™ effectively cleared the appearance of the nail 6-12 months post-treatment. There are other brands of lasers available, but when looking at the PinPointe Foot Laser, researchers found improvements in the appearance of the nail in as few as 90 days.
Commonly Asked Questions About Toenail Fungus
- What are the most common misconceptions about toenail fungus treatments? One prevalent misconception is that toenail fungus is a cosmetic issue rather than a medical one. Many people believe that over-the-counter creams or home remedies can effectively treat it. However, toenail fungus is a persistent infection that requires targeted medical intervention. Another misconception is that the condition will resolve on its own without treatment. In reality, untreated toenail fungus can lead to more severe complications and the spread of the infection.
- Are over-the-counter treatments effective in addressing toenail fungus? Over-the-counter treatments may provide temporary relief for mild cases, but they often lack the potency needed to eradicate the infection completely. Additionally, self-diagnosing and treating without professional guidance can lead to delays in receiving proper care. Consultation with a qualified podiatrist is crucial for accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan, which may include prescription medications, topical treatments, or, in some cases, laser therapy.
- Can toenail fungus be treated with home remedies? While home remedies like tea tree oil or vinegar soaks are popular, their efficacy in treating toenail fungus is limited. Mild cases might see some improvement, but severe infections require medical intervention. It’s essential to consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, as relying solely on home remedies can result in the progression of the infection.
- What role does podiatry play in toenail fungus treatment in San Diego? Warm and humid conditions can contribute to toenail fungus growth in cities like San Diego, and podiatrists play a crucial role in diagnosis and treatment. Podiatrists are trained to identify the specific type of fungus causing the infection and prescribe targeted medications. They can also provide valuable guidance on preventive measures to minimize the risk of recurrence.
- Are prescription medications the most effective treatment for toenail fungus? Prescription medications, such as oral antifungal drugs, are often more potent than over-the-counter options. However, their effectiveness varies from person to person, and they may have side effects. Laser therapy is another option gaining popularity for its ability to target the fungus directly. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the infection, the patient’s health, and their preferences.
- How long does toenail fungus treatment take? The duration of toenail fungus treatment varies depending on the severity of the infection and the chosen treatment method. Some treatments may take several months to yield results. Consistency in following the prescribed treatment plan, good foot hygiene, and preventive measures are essential for successful outcomes.
Treatment Options for you
The most common treatment option is topical solutions. Here are a few reasons why topical solutions are not the best treatment option for toenail fungus
- They have a cure rate of about five to ten percent
- Over-the-counter medication
- This means that it is most likely not strong enough to kill all the fungus
- The topical solution typically only stays on your nail
- As a result, it does not penetrate through the nail bed
Another common treatment option is an oral medication. Here are a few reasons why our nail specialists do not recommend this treatment for toenail fungus.
- This can lead to liver toxicity
- It can cause other health problems in people who have underlying health issues
Is it Effective?
Another study found that patients experienced approximately 80% improvement on all nails treated 6 months post-treatment. Clinical trials with Laser therapy continue to improve the quality and effectiveness of the treatment. For now, Laser therapy for onychomycosis appears to be a strong competitor with oral and topical drug treatment options.
Toenail Fungus Prevention
Prevention of nail fungus is important. One way of getting a nail fungus is skin-to-skin contact with people who already have it or other fungal infections on their skin, such as Athlete’s foot. Another way of getting fungi in your nails is through objects. You can get nail fungus by walking barefoot in a warm and moist area, such as a public pool, or by sharing an infected nail clipper or shoes.
In addition to those conditions above, simply age can be a factor too – older adults are more prone to getting fungal nail infections. If you have these conditions above, be extra careful with the fungal nail infection. If you notice any changes in your nails, ask your doctor immediately.
Laser Treatment for a Toenail Fungus in San Diego
Toenail fungus can be a persistent and bothersome condition. Additionally, its treatments in San Diego may also vary. If you have caught nail fungus, luckily, residents of San Diego can access a convenient and effective option that typically only takes one sitting. The FDA-approved PinPointe Laser is the most reliable alternative to toenail fungus treatment. When it comes to tackling toenail fungus, not all treatments are created equal. Other toenail fungus treatments, like topical solutions and oral medication, are not as effective.
Topical solutions have a relatively low cure rate because they struggle to penetrate all the way through the nail bed to eradicate the fungus. On the other hand, oral medications can be potent, but they can lead to liver toxicity. Patients taking these medications for toenail fungus must undergo consistent blood tests throughout the treatment course to monitor potential side effects.
Our experienced nail doctor in San Diego, CA, highly recommends PinPointe Laser treatment for toenail fungus. The PinPointe Laser treatment has the highest cure rate in the market and is favored for its convenience and safety. Unlike other treatment options, there are no known side effects associated with the PinPointe Laser, and there’s no need for a lengthy recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after a single treatment session without any discomfort or pain.
If you suspect you may have toenail fungus or have noticed any signs of this condition, we encourage you to take action promptly. Reach out to us at 800-672-0625 at our San Diego, CA, location to schedule an appointment with our podiatrist. You can also visit our website for more information on our expert podiatrists at one of our over 150 locations nationwide.
Don’t let toenail fungus disrupt your life any longer. With the PinPointe Laser treatment, you can take a significant step towards clear and healthy toenails, all while enjoying the beauty and vibrant lifestyle that San Diego has to offer.
