Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects many people. It can be embarrassing, uncomfortable, and difficult to treat if left unchecked. Residents of Newbury Park may be more susceptible to fungal infections due to the area’s active lifestyle, access to public pools, gyms, and sports activities, which increase exposure to fungus-causing environments. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for maintaining healthy nails.

How Do You Get Toenail Fungus?

Fungus is present almost everywhere, but only a small percentage can infect your nails. The most common ways to contract toenail fungus include:

  • Public places: Swimming pools, locker rooms, gyms, communal showers, and nail salons are all hotbeds for fungal growth due to their warm, damp conditions.

  • Improper hygiene at salons: Unsanitized tools and equipment can spread fungus rapidly among clients.

  • Family history: Fungus can be hereditary; if someone in your household has toenail fungus or athlete’s foot, you may be at risk.

  • Medical conditions: Diabetes or weakened immune systems make it easier for fungal infections to take hold.

Even minor nail damage, like cracks or splits, can provide an entry point for fungal spores. Regular exposure to these environments or risk factors can allow the fungus to thrive under the nail.

Signs and Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus often starts subtly, making early detection challenging. Key symptoms to watch for include:

  • Discoloration of the nail (yellow, white, or brown streaks)

  • Thickened or distorted nails

  • Crumbling or splitting along the edges

  • Foul odor resembling cheese

  • Pain or discomfort when walking or wearing shoes

  • Separation of the nail from the nail bed

The slower growth rate of toenails compared to fingernails allows the fungus more time to spread before visible symptoms appear, especially in the dark, moist environment inside shoes.

Why Professional Treatment is Important

Toenail fungus is highly contagious and can spread if untreated. Over-the-counter topical solutions are usually ineffective because they cannot penetrate the nail bed where the fungus thrives. Oral medications may have a higher cure rate but carry serious risks, including liver toxicity, and require regular blood monitoring.

Laser treatment has become the most effective solution for toenail fungus. The FDA-approved PinPointe Laser typically requires only one session to effectively treat the infection. Unlike other treatments, it has a high cure rate, is painless, and requires no recovery time. Patients can resume their daily activities immediately after treatment.

Our nail doctor in Dallas, TX, recommends the PinPointe Laser for treating toenail fungus, as it targets the infection directly while protecting the surrounding tissue.

Preventing Toenail Fungus

Prevention is always better than a cure. Tips for avoiding toenail fungus include:

  • Wear flip-flops or sandals in public showers, pools, and locker rooms

  • Avoid sharing shoes or nail care tools

  • Keep feet clean and dry, and change socks regularly

  • Disinfect personal grooming tools

  • Seek prompt treatment for athlete’s foot or minor nail injuries

Take Action Today

If you notice any signs of toenail fungus, don’t wait. The earlier you start treatment, the faster and more effective the results. Contact our licensed nail doctors at Laser Nail Therapy in Newbury Park, CA, at 1-(800) 672-0625 to schedule a consultation or learn more about our over 150 locations nationwide.