Fungal Toenails in Parker, Colorado
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About 20% of the general population has toenail fungus at any given time. Though common, without prompt treatment, toenail fungus can cause you pain or result in an infection. At Colorado Foot + Ankle Sports Medicine in Parker, Colorado, podiatrists Kevin Blue, DPM, FACFAS, Ryan Muchowski, DPM, and the team provide safe, effective treatment for toenail fungus. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book a consultation online today.
What are the Symptoms of a Fungal Toenail?
Fungal nail infections can cause noticeable changes to the appearance and texture of your nails, often leading to discomfort if left untreated. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:
- Thickened, discolored nails
- Brittle or crumbly nails
- Distorted shape or texture of the nail
- Buildup of debris underneath the nail
- Foul odor from the affected area
- Pain or discomfort in the affected nail
- Difficulty in trimming or cutting the nail
At Colorado Foot + Ankle Sports Medicine, we can perform an evaluation to determine the cause of your nail problems and provide proper treatment.
How Are Fungal Toenails Treated?
Mild cases of toenail fungus can often be managed with over-the-counter products and at-home care. However, persistent or severe infections typically require professional intervention. At Colorado Foot + Ankle Sports Medicine, we offer a variety of treatments for toenail fungus, including oral and topical antifungal medications. Another effective method is laser treatment. During this procedure, the nail is filed down to ensure the treatment reaches the affected area. You may experience a mild heating sensation as the laser is moved in a circular motion over the nail. The treatment may also extend to the surrounding area to eliminate any fungus that has spread. The deep heating of the nail bed and surrounding tissue helps kill the fungus and promotes the return of a healthy nail.
Colorado Foot + Ankle Sports Medicine Reviews
I got in quickly, started treatment, will have a followup. Easy ability to contact for information. My visit initiated with the doctor. In-office x-rays, specialization. All around foot care.
Everyone was great,Very professional. I was totally impressed with the DR.
I saw Dr. Muchowski on short notice while on a work trip to Parker. He, along with his staff, were outstanding professionals from start to finish. My ingrown/infected toenail was taken care of, I was out of the office in time for work, and healed very quickly. I’d highly recommend this doctor and clinic to anyone with foot problems, because they know how to SOLVE them.
Great Dr. Friendly and professional. I'll be back.
Staff is extremely Kind and very helpful and accommodating.
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What Causes Fungal Toenails?
Fungal toenails develop when microscopic fungi enter the nail bed through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. Warm, moist environments allow these organisms to thrive, especially when the feet are frequently enclosed in shoes. Some of the most common causes of fungal toenails include:
- Warm, damp footwear
- Sweaty feet
- Public locker rooms or pools
- Minor nail trauma
- Weakened immune system
- Poor foot hygiene
Over time, the infection can spread deeper into the nail, causing thickening and discoloration. Early treatment helps prevent the fungus from becoming more difficult to manage.
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About UsFungal Toenails FAQs
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of your toenails and surrounding tissues. The condition affects people of all ages, but it’s especially common in adults over the age of 60.
For most people, toenail fungus is only a cosmetic concern. However, if you have diabetes or another chronic condition that affects your circulation, you’re more likely to experience serious complications.
What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?
The symptoms of toenail fungus vary from person to person. Telltale signs include:
• Thick nails
• White or yellow discoloration
• Brittle, crumbling, or ragged nails
• Distorted or warped nails
As the condition progresses, you might also notice a foul odor coming from your toenails.
Is there any way to prevent toenail fungus?
There’s no way to prevent toenail fungus entirely, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk significantly. Colorado Foot + Ankle Sports Medicine recommends:
• Washing your feet regularly
• Trimming your nails straight across and filing down the edges
• Wearing shoes made of breathable materials
• Wearing shoes in locker rooms or pool areas
• Giving up nail polish and artificial nails
You should also take the time to dry your feet and the areas between your toes thoroughly after taking a shower or going swimming.
How is toenail fungus diagnosed?
To diagnose toenail fungus, your physician carefully examines your nails. Afterward, they take clippings of your nails and scrape debris from underneath them. They send these samples to a laboratory that determines the type of fungus causing your infection.
Other conditions like psoriasis can mimic the symptoms of toenail fungus. Bacteria and yeast can also infect your nails. Pinpointing the source of your symptoms plays an important role in developing a custom treatment plan.
How is toenail fungus treated?
Treatment of toenail fungus depends on the severity of your symptoms and the type of fungus causing it. Usually, Colorado Foot + Ankle Sports Medicine recommends conservative, noninvasive treatments like taking prescription medications. There are several types of medication used to treat toenail fungus, including oral antifungals, medicated nail polish, and prescription nail creams.
If your nails don’t respond to these types of treatment, surgical intervention may be necessary. Your physician might recommend removing the affected nail or nails and applying an antifungal drug directly to your skin beneath the nail. They might also recommend the permanent removal of the nail.
Don’t let toenail fungus negatively affect your quality of life. Schedule an appointment at Colorado Foot + Ankle Sports Medicine today. Call the office to speak with a friendly team member or book a consultation online.