Toenail Fungus Cause
At Laser Nail Therapy in Leesburg, VA, our foot doctors use the PinPointe YAG Laser. It heats the nail plate and kills the fungus and fungal spores inside and under the nails. Laser Nail Therapy specializes in toenail fungus treatment. Call our office today if you are dealing with fungal toenails. Don’t suffer another day with the embarrassment of discolored, thick, or brittle nails.
The fungus can live in the layer of dead skin around your nails, in the space under your nail, and in the nails themselves. Fungal nail infections often result from damage to the nail plate or the surrounding area. Skin infections or athlete’s foot invade the nail, causing the infection. Up to 30 percent of patients with fungal nail infections also have fungal skin infections. Hot, sweaty feet in fully enclosed shoes provide the ideal warm, damp environment for fungus to grow and multiply.
Factors that increase the risk of nail infections are:
- nail damage (e.g., activities that cause trauma to the nail)
- medications that weaken the immune system
- smoking
- general poor health
- walking barefoot in public areas
Medical conditions like diabetes and poor circulation can create the potential for worsening conditions, such as secondary bacterial infections. The fungus can thrive when the foot is contained in warm, damp shoes for a long time. Poor foot hygiene, walking on contaminated floors, and the use of badly sterilized nail cutting and filing equipment are other ways the feet can be exposed to the fungus.
Identifying Toenail Fungus and Ways to Prevent Infection
Toenail fungal infections can cause permanent deformity of the nails. This can interfere with wearing shoes, walking, playing sports, and doing other activities.
Infected nails often show one or more of the following signs:
- Discolored streaks in the skin under the nail or nail bed.
- The buildup of bits and pieces of skin and nail fragments under the nail.
- Thickened nails that may separate from the skin under the nail.
- Brittle and easily breaking nails.
- White spots or streaks on the nail surface.
- Soft and powdery nail surface, which appears as the infection worsens.
- Distorted-shaped Toenails.
- Dull toenails without luster or shine.
- Dark-colored toenails are due to fungus debris building under the nail.
- Splitting of the nails.
Easy tips to prevent Toenail Fungus
If you’re looking to avoid getting toenail fungus, follow the following steps:
- Wash your feet daily with soap and water.
- After washing your feet, make sure to dry them thoroughly.
- Cut your toenails straight across with clean nail clippers.
- Wear shoes in areas where fungus can grow. (For example, swimming pools, spas, or locker rooms.)
Best Way to Treat Toenail Fungus in Leesburg, VA
If you have caught toenail fungus, one of the most effective ways to treat it is with the FDA-approved PinPointe laser. Unlike topical solutions and oral medications, laser treatment targets the infection directly beneath the nail and typically requires only one session. Topical treatments often have a very low cure rate because they do not penetrate deeply enough through the nail bed to kill the fungus at its source. Oral antifungal medication may be more effective than topicals, but it comes with major risks, including liver toxicity, and often requires consistent blood testing throughout treatment.
For this reason, our toenail fungus specialists in Leesburg, VA strongly recommend the PinPointe Laser because it offers the highest cure rate on the market without harmful side effects. Laser treatment is painless for most patients, has no recovery period, and allows you to return to your daily activities immediately after your appointment.
After your consultation, the doctor performs the treatment by moving the laser light over each nail in a careful grid pattern. The laser’s wavelength targets fungal organisms and destroys them using controlled heat, while leaving the nail and surrounding skin unharmed. Most patients only feel a gentle warming sensation or an occasional pinprick feeling. In more severe cases, the doctor may file the nail down beforehand to thin it out, which helps the laser penetrate better and improves results for thick or heavily infected nails.
To prepare for your appointment, we ask that you remove all nail polish or decorations the day before treatment so the doctor can properly examine your nails. If you will be wearing closed-toe shoes, it’s also a good idea to bring a clean pair of socks to change into afterward.
In most cases, patients only need one treatment to eliminate toenail fungus. However, severely thickened or advanced infections may require additional sessions. If a second treatment is needed, patients who purchased our post-treatment-care products package may qualify for a discounted follow-up treatment within one year.
Fun Things to Do in Leesburg, VA, while Visiting for Laser Treatment
Leesburg, Virginia, is a charming destination in the heart of Loudoun County that blends historic character with modern attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or exploring between appointments, Leesburg offers a relaxing mix of shopping, dining, outdoor adventures, and local culture.
To start, downtown Leesburg is a must-see. Its cobblestone sidewalks, brick storefronts, and preserved architecture create a warm small-town feel while still offering plenty to do. As you walk along King Street and Market Street, you’ll find locally owned boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés. In addition, seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, and community events often bring extra energy to the area, making it enjoyable year-round.
For history lovers, Leesburg has several well-known landmarks that showcase Virginia’s rich past. Morven Park is one of the most popular attractions, featuring a historic mansion, scenic trails, and equestrian grounds. Likewise, Oatlands Historic House and Gardens offers a beautiful look into 19th-century life with its preserved estate and landscaped gardens. Visitors can also tour Dodona Manor, the former home of George C. Marshall, and learn about his impact on American and world history.
Beyond downtown, Leesburg is surrounded by countryside views and outdoor recreation. Since the area sits in Virginia’s wine and beer country, many visitors enjoy spending the afternoon at nearby wineries, breweries, and cideries. Meanwhile, nature lovers can explore hiking and biking trails, including routes that lead to scenic overlooks like Bear’s Den, where you can take in Blue Ridge Mountain views.
Finally, food and shopping round out the Leesburg experience. From casual cafés to farm-to-table dining, the town has options for every taste. Plus, the Leesburg Premium Outlets offer major brands and great deals, making it a favorite stop for shoppers.
Schedule Your Leesburg Toenail Fungus Treatment
If you have any signs of nail fungus, don’t wait. Call us at 800-672-0625 at our Leesburg, VA location, or visit our website to learn more about our doctors at one of our over 150 locations. Take the first step toward clear, healthy nails today.