Toenail fungus treatment might not all be as easy as you think, especially if you live in the Boston, MA area. It’s easy to get your nail infected with fungus. Furthermore, you can easily catch a fungal infection in moist places like the pool area, gym locker rooms, or even in your sweaty socks. When your nail gets infected, it will become deformed and discolored. What’s difficult is treating your infected nail. It’s difficult because the fungus goes through and under the nail. There are different ways to treat nail fungus: Oral and topical medication, surgery, and laser treatment.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus starts when fungal spores get trapped in the cracks of the nails or cuts surrounding the nails. As the infection progresses, it’s common to see discoloration and thickening of the nails. Thick nails become really hard to trim. This may also cause pain when wearing shoes. Sometimes the nails may also become very brittle and may start crumbling. Patients may lose the whole nail due to the infection. In other cases, the nails start lifting and can get caught on things that may cause additional pain. It is best to treat the infection as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the worse the infection will get.
Commonly, fungal nail infections are due to a lack of footwear in public places. This is because fungus thrives in warm, dark, and moist environments. The most common places to catch a fungal infection are public showers, gym locker rooms, and public swimming pools.
Additionally, people with weakened immune systems might also be more likely to contract toenail fungus. And if your feet tend to get sweaty often, make sure you change your shoes often and wear socks that dry easily.
Common Toenail Fungus Symptoms
Below are some common toenail fungus symptoms that people experience when they are first infected. Make sure to see a nail doctor if you do start to experience any of these symptoms.
- Discoloration on the toenail
- This includes yellow, white, clouded, brown, and even black nails
- Brittle nails
- The toenail becomes brittle, loosened, and malnourished
- Thickened toenails
- This makes it difficult to cut your nails and keep them maintained
- Smelly toenails
- In some cases, toenail fungus can make your toenails smelly and stinky
Tips on how to avoid Toenail Fungus
Avoiding toenail fungus can be easier than you think. During the summertime, people are more prone to getting toenail fungus infections. If you believe you have a toenail fungus infection, schedule a consultation to see one of our nail doctors.
- Always wear shoes in public areas
- This includes public swimming pools, gyms, locker rooms, and public showers/bathrooms.
- Never share nail clippers with anyone
- If someone who has a toenail fungus infection uses your nail clippers, you can get infected as well
- Always disinfect your nail clippers
- Make sure to sanitize your nail clippers and any other nail tools you use to maintain your nails
- Avoid sharing shoes with other people
- Sometimes people who share shoes can get infected with toenail fungus, especially if no socks are worn
- Avoid wearing the same closed-toe shoes for an extended period of time during hot weather
- This allows for the perfect warm, moist environment for toenail fungus to develop in your shoes
Treatment Options
A doctor may prescribe oral antifungal drugs such as Lamisil and Sporanox that would need to be taken for a certain period of time. These medications may come with side effects like a skin rash or even liver damage. There are also topical treatments like medicated nail polish or nail creams. These topical treatments take a longer time to cure the infection and may harm the skin around your nails. For severe infections, some doctors may suggest nail removal.
Laser Treatment is the easiest and most efficient way to cure nail fungus. The laser would penetrate beneath the nail and kill the fungus that infects the nail. As a result, it only requires one treatment and does not come with any pain or side effects.
Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus in the Boston, MA area
As you can see, tips for healthy feet without nail fungus can be easy to find. If you have caught nail fungus, it can be easily treated using the FDA-approved PinPointe laser. It typically only takes one 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. Oral medication is not recommended by our foot doctors because of the side effects. 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 doctors near the Boston area recommend this toenail fungus treatment. 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. Visit our website for more information on our doctors at one of our over 150 locations.
Fun things to do in Boston, MA
Boston is a city that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern attractions, making it an exciting destination for visitors of all interests. As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston is deeply rooted in American history while still offering a vibrant cultural, dining, and entertainment scene. From iconic landmarks and museums to scenic outdoor spaces and lively neighborhoods, the city provides countless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment throughout the year.
A walk through history
One of Boston’s most defining features is its rich historical significance. Walking the Freedom Trail is one of the most popular ways to experience the city’s past. This well-marked path leads visitors through 16 historic sites, including Boston Common, the Old State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church. These landmarks offer insight into the American Revolution and the individuals who shaped the nation’s early history. Visitors can also explore the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, where interactive exhibits bring the famous protest to life. Nearby, the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument further highlight Boston’s role in shaping the country.
Dive into the culture
In addition to its historic appeal, Boston is home to some of the nation’s most respected museums and cultural institutions. The Museum of Fine Arts features an extensive collection that spans centuries and cultures, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum offers a unique experience with its stunning courtyard and carefully curated exhibits displayed in a historic mansion setting. Families and science lovers often enjoy the Museum of Science, which includes hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and an impressive planetarium. These cultural attractions make Boston a city where learning and entertainment go hand in hand.
A stroll through the parks
Boston also has a strong connection to sports, which plays a major role in the city’s identity. Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, is one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the world. Even for those who are not sports fans, a guided tour of Fenway offers a glimpse into the city’s passionate sports culture. Depending on the season, visitors can attend games featuring the Celtics, Bruins, or Patriots, all of which have loyal fan bases and contribute to the city’s energetic atmosphere.
Fun in the outdoors
Outdoor spaces provide a refreshing contrast to Boston’s busy streets. Boston Common and the Public Garden serve as green oases in the heart of the city, offering walking paths, shaded lawns, and scenic views. The Public Garden’s famous swan boats are a seasonal favorite for visitors and locals alike. Along the Charles River, the Esplanade is a popular destination for walking, jogging, biking, and kayaking. The Boston Harborwalk stretches along the waterfront, offering beautiful views of the harbor and access to restaurants, parks, and cultural sites. For those looking to venture slightly outside the city, Revere Beach provides a classic seaside escape.
Getting to know the local life
Boston’s neighborhoods add depth and character to the overall experience. Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market are lively gathering spots filled with food vendors, shops, and street performers. The North End is known for its narrow streets, historic sites, and authentic Italian cuisine, making it a favorite destination for food lovers. Cambridge, located just across the river, offers a youthful and intellectual atmosphere shaped by Harvard University and MIT. Exploring these neighborhoods allows visitors to experience the city’s diverse personalities and local culture.
Food lovers paradise
Food plays a central role in Boston’s appeal. The city is famous for its fresh seafood, including clam chowder, lobster rolls, and oysters. At the same time, Boston’s dining scene continues to evolve, offering everything from traditional New England dishes to international cuisine and modern fine dining. Local bakeries, coffee shops, and historic pubs add to the city’s welcoming and flavorful atmosphere.
Make the most of the city
Overall, Boston is a city that offers something for everyone. Its combination of historic landmarks, world-class museums, outdoor recreation, sports culture, and diverse neighborhoods creates a well-rounded and memorable experience. Whether exploring centuries-old streets, enjoying waterfront views, or sampling local cuisine, Boston continues to captivate visitors with its unique blend of tradition and modern life.
