A fungus can be unsightly whether it’s on the toes or fingernails. Moreover, some fungi can leave nails deformed. Unfortunately, nail fungus is very common with over three-million reported cases a year. If you need help, get Fingernail Fungus Treatment in Racine WI.
What Causes Nail Fungus?
Nail Fungus is caused by mold, yeast, or dermatophyte fungi. Symptoms include thickened nails, dark spots on the nail surface, and scaling under the nail. Nail fungus can be transmitted through indirect contact. That is why consumers need to make sure they visit nail salons that disinfect equipment after each use. Further, it’s a good idea to take your own nail tools to the salon. In addition, something as simple as cutting the cuticles allows fungi to get in.
Visit Your Doctor
Not every nail problem is caused by fungus. In fact, the doctor is the only one that can make a diagnosis. Indeed, they must take a biopsy or clipping of the nail and send it to the laboratory. If the biopsy is positive for fungus, the condition will be treated accordingly. Moreover, many insurance companies will not pay for treatment unless there is a positive biopsy.
Treatment
Fingernail Fungus Treatment in Racine WI strategies vary. Initially, the physician will try a prescription topical solution. Sometimes, these solutions don’t work because they cannot penetrate the nail. Ciclopirox is a common medication for the fungus that’s applied like nail polish. Later, the physician may prescribe oral medications to treat the condition. Lamasil is one of the better-known medications. It’s taken daily for 12 weeks for toenails and six weeks for fingernails. The medication is effective but should not be used by patients with liver problems.
Other treatments include iontophoresis, which uses electric current to help nails absorb topical treatments. Surgery to remove the nail may be necessary if the fungus is associated with a trauma or a serious infection. However, patients must use oral or topical medication as well. That’s because the fungus may reappear when the nail grows back. Most physicians recommend keeping nails short, clean, and dry. This is the most effective practice to avoid a fungus. To learn more, visit Great Lakes Foot & Ankle Centers.
