The dangers of ignoring nail fungus can be very bad. It is known that about 10% of the population have nail fungus in the US – especially in the elderly population. Since nail fungus is usually not symptomatic, many people consider it a cosmetic problem and don’t seek a doctor for help. However, ignoring the fungal nail infection could cause more complications other than the change in appearance.
Complications of Nail Fungus
- The spread of the fungus
Untreated toenail fungus could spread surrounding skin. It may cause nail fungus in other nails or athlete’s foot (symptom: itchiness, rashes, skin peeling on your foot or between toes). The fungi can easily spread under warm and moist conditions, such as inside shoes and socks. Although it is less common, the toenail fungus can also spread outside of the foot causing itchiness in other areas such as jock itch. - The spread of the infection
People with a weakened immune system such as those with cancer or diabetes can develop complications from fungal nail infections easier than others. Cracking in your skin due to the fungus can let bacteria and other yeast and mold inside the skin, which could cause bacterial skin infection (i.e. cellulitis). In severe cases, those infections can spread into the bloodstream and become deadly. They can happen by a single untreated nail fungus.
Other problems from ignoring nail fungus
- Pain in foot
Nail fungus changes your nail shape and texture, such as thick/thin, brittle, dull, and rough surface. When it gets severe, those changes give you foot pain and sometimes make it harder to walk. Also, an athlete’s foot can also give you skin burning or stinging sensation. - Loss of nails
When fungus spread to the nail bed, it could make your nail lose. If the nail becomes too loose and unsecured, you may have to take out a part of your nail.
The earlier you seek help and see a doctor, the easier it is to treat. If you start seeing some changes in your nail, don’t hesitate to ask for help!
Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus
As you can see, tips for healthy feet without nail fungus can be easy to find. Furthermore, if you have caught nail fungus, it can be easily treated using the FDA-approved PinPointe laser. It typically only takes on treatment. Other treatments like topical solutions and oral medication are not as effective. Topical solutions have a very low cure rate. This is because the solution does not penetrate all the way through the nail bed. This is because it can lead to liver toxicity. You would need to have consistent blood tests throughout the course of taking the medication.
Our nail doctor in White Plains, NY recommends this treatment for toenail fungus. The PinPointe Laser treatment has the highest cure rate in the market. It has no side effects and no recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after the treatment. Also, there’s no pain. If you have any signs of nail fungus, call us at (800) 672-0625 our White Plains, NY location. Visit our website for more information on our doctors at one of our over 150 locations.
