Many people live with toenail fungus for years without seeking treatment. Because the infection often develops slowly and may not cause pain in its early stages, it’s easy to delay addressing it. Over time, however, frustration sets in. Some individuals feel they have “tried everything” without success and eventually accept the condition as permanent. Others simply ignore the infection, hoping it will go away on its own.

Toenail fungus is a persistent condition that rarely resolves without proper treatment. While it is manageable and treatable, it does not typically disappear on its own. In fact, allowing the infection to remain untreated can cause it to spread and worsen.

Adopting a passive approach can lead to worsening nail damage and more complex treatment later. Understanding why chronic toenail fungus requires active management is the first step toward improving nail health and preventing long-term complications.

Although toenail fungus often begins as a cosmetic issue, ignoring it can lead to more significant complications over time.

1. Spread Beyond the Original Nail: Toenail fungus can spread from one nail to another if left untreated. In some cases, it may also extend to the surrounding skin, causing athlete’s foot. Individuals with weakened immune systems, including older adults, people with diabetes, or those undergoing certain medical treatments, face a higher risk of more widespread infection. While systemic spread is uncommon in healthy individuals, localized spread between nails and skin is relatively frequent.
2. Cracked Skin and Secondary Infections: As the infection progresses, nails may thicken and lift from the nail bed. This separation can create small openings where moisture and bacteria accumulate. Cracks in the surrounding skin may allow bacteria to enter, increasing the risk of secondary infections. For individuals with circulation issues or diabetes, even minor skin infections can become more serious if not addressed promptly.
3. Permanent Nail Changes: Long-standing fungal infections can permanently alter the structure of the nail. Thickening, discoloration, distortion, and chronic brittleness may persist even after the infection clears if significant damage has occurred. In advanced cases, the nail may partially or completely detach from the nail bed.
4. Transmission Within the Household: Toenail fungus spreads through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Sharing towels, nail clippers, footwear, or walking barefoot in shared spaces can increase the risk of transmission to other nails or household members.

Early treatment reduces the risk of spread, structural damage, and secondary infection. Addressing toenail fungus promptly helps preserve nail health and prevents complications from developing over time.

Toenail fungus is caused by microscopic organisms that thrive in warm, damp environments. Here’s how to reduce your risk:

• Protect your feet in public places: Always wear sandals or water shoes in locker rooms, gyms, and around pools.
• Avoid sharing personal items: Do not share shoes, socks, or nail tools.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash and dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Trim and clean nails regularly: Keep them short and dry.
• Change socks daily: Especially after exercising or sweating.
• Boost immunity: Older adults are more prone to fungal infections, so extra vigilance is important.

If you notice changes in your nails, such as thickening, discoloration, or crumbling, see a doctor right away.

Topical Medications typically consist of creams and lacquers, whichare widely available but often have a very low success rate. They typically require daily application for a year or more, and many patients see little to no improvement.

Oral antifungals work slightly better than topical treatments, but they also require a lengthy course of medication. They can cause serious side effects such as liver damage, making them unsuitable for some patients.

Lastly, the PinPointe™ FootLaser is a safe, FDA-cleared alternative that has helped thousands of patients finally get rid of stubborn toenail fungus.

• Quick & effective: Most patients need just one session.
• No downtime: You can resume normal activities immediately.
• Safe: No side effects like those associated with oral medications.
• Proven results: The laser targets and destroys fungus at the source.

After treatment, the infected nail will gradually grow out and be replaced by a new, healthy nail.

Toenail fungus won’t disappear on its own — and the longer you wait, the harder it is to treat. Don’t risk permanent damage or spreading it to others.

Call us today at 1-(800) 672-0625 or visit our website to schedule your consultation with a licensed podiatrist and learn more about the PinPointe Laser treatment.