Toenail Fungus Symptoms
Laser Nail Therapy offers advanced laser treatment for toenail fungus in Chicago, helping patients safely eliminate stubborn fungal infections. Toenail fungus is extremely common and can develop slowly, which means many people don’t realize they’re infected right away. Because fungal spores exist in everyday environments, anyone can get toenail fungus, but certain groups face a higher risk, including older adults (especially over 50), athletes, diabetics, and people with weakened immune systems. In fact, about 10% of the U.S. population is affected.
Toenail fungus symptoms vary, but common signs include:
-
Discolored toenails (yellow, white, brown, or black)
-
Thickened nails
-
Brittle or crumbly nails
-
Distorted nail shape
-
Nails lifting from the nail bed
Discoloration is often the first noticeable symptom. Many infections start as a small yellow spot that gradually spreads across the nail. Some people may instead notice white streaks or cloudy patches. As the infection progresses, the nail may thicken, making it harder to trim and maintain. Thick nails can also become misshapen over time, which may cause discomfort and make proper nail care difficult.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to seek treatment early to prevent the infection from worsening or spreading to other nails.
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.
Toenail Fungus Treatment Options
Toenail fungus has several treatment options, but many people start with home remedies or over-the-counter topical solutions. Unfortunately, home remedies rarely work. Scientific evidence does not support popular claims that tea tree oil soaks cure toenail fungus. Some people even soak their feet in bleach or other household cleaning products. This approach can burn the skin, damage the nail, and worsen the problem. Never use bleach or cleaning chemicals on your feet as a treatment.
Many patients try topical solutions next because pharmacies sell them over the counter without a prescription. However, topical treatments have a very low success rate—usually around 5% to 10%. Many people use these products for months (or even over a year) with little improvement. Topical solutions fail so often because they cannot fully penetrate the nail plate. As a result, they do not reach or kill the fungus living under the nail bed, which prevents a complete cure.
Doctors may also prescribe oral antifungal medication. Oral treatment works better than topicals and offers an average cure rate of about 60%. However, this option carries serious risks. Oral antifungals can cause liver toxicity, require long treatment periods, and force patients to complete regular blood tests to monitor liver function. Because of these concerns, many specialists recommend safer alternatives whenever possible.
Does 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!
Frequently Asked Questions about Toenail Fungus
Which demographic is at the highest 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 get toenail fungus from nail salons?
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.
Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus in Chicago
Laser treatment offers the safest and most effective option for treating toenail fungus. It delivers the highest cure rate and works well for most patients. Laser therapy causes no side effects, requires no recovery time, and lets you return to normal activities immediately after treatment. Most patients also report little to no discomfort during the procedure.
At Laser Nail Therapy, our Chicago toenail fungus specialists treat patients using the PinPointe FootLaser. This FDA-cleared laser delivers one of the highest cure rates available, up to 85% after just one treatment. In many cases, patients only need a single session to treat the infection.
Our licensed Chicago podiatrists begin with a consultation to examine your nails and confirm the infection. Next, the doctor explains how laser treatment works and reviews recommended post-treatment care to help prevent reinfection. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns before starting treatment.
Laser treatment works so well because it targets the fungus directly under the nail. The laser penetrates the nail plate and destroys fungal organisms in the nail and nail bed without damaging surrounding skin. While the treatment kills the infection quickly, the nail still needs time to grow out. Most patients see full, clear nail growth within six to nine months.
Call (800) 672-0625 to schedule a free consultation with one of our Chicago nail doctors, or visit our website to learn more.
Fun things to do in Chicago, IL
Chicago, Illinois, “The Windy City,” delivers a world-class mix of iconic architecture, rich culture, and nonstop entertainment along Lake Michigan. Whether you visit for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Chicago offers something for every type of traveler.
Start your trip at Millennium Park, where you can see Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), walk through landscaped paths, and catch seasonal performances at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Just nearby, the Chicago Riverwalk invites you to stroll along the water and enjoy skyline views. For an unforgettable experience, book an architecture boat cruise and learn the stories behind Chicago’s famous skyscrapers.
For incredible panoramic views, visit the Willis Tower Skydeck and step onto The Ledge, a glass platform that extends high above the city streets. You can also head to 360 Chicago at the John Hancock Center and try “Tilt” for a thrilling view over the skyline and Lake Michigan. Families and visitors of all ages love Navy Pier, where you can ride the Centennial Wheel, enjoy waterfront dining, and explore entertainment options.
Chicago also delivers world-class museums and attractions. The Art Institute of Chicago showcases famous masterpieces, while the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium keep families and history lovers engaged for hours.
Before you leave, walk the Magnificent Mile for shopping and dining, and make time for classic Chicago favorites like deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. With its energy, scenery, and culture, Chicago creates an unforgettable experience year-round.
Schedule a Free Consultation to Examine Your Nails
If you have any signs of toenail fungus, don’t wait. Our Chicago, IL nail doctors offer the PinPointe laser treatment, the most effective and safe method for curing toenail fungus. Call us today at (800) 672-0625 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation at a location near you.
