Toenail Fungus Treatment in Houston, TX

The area of the toes is generally warm and damp, unfortunately making it a great area for fungus to grow. If left untreated, the fungal infection can spread, which is why it’s so important to get professional help early on and look into your treatment options.

Fungal infections occur due to fungus getting through the cracks of the toes or cuts in your skin. Common signs that you may have a fungal infection include thicker than normal toenails, oddly shaped toenails, discoloration, a yellowish hue to the nail, and separation of the nail and nail bed. Fungal infections can affect anyone but are most common among men, those with diabetes or athlete’s foot, and smokers. The risk of having toenail fungus also increases as you age, if another family member has it, and if you have a weaker immune system.

Fungal Toenails prevention tips

To avoid getting a fungal infection, it’s important that you wash your feet daily with soap and water, making sure to get in between your toes, and dry the feet well. When cutting your toenails, make sure the clippers you’re using are clean and that you’re cutting straight across. It’s also important that you wear shoes in areas where fungus can thrive, such as wet public places like swimming pools or locker rooms.

Toenail fungus can also be treated with certain over-the-counter antifungal creams and ointments. To remove pressure from the nails, keep them cut at a short length. Oral antifungal drugs, medicated nail cream, or medicated nail polish may also be prescribed by your podiatrist if simpler treatments do not prove successful. In some cases, your podiatrist may also recommend laser treatment to eradicate toenail fungus.

Patients should visit their local podiatrist if they suspect they have toenail fungus. In its more severe stages, toenail fungus can become very painful. Other infections can develop from toenail fungus that can spread to other parts of the body. Upon examination for fungus, your podiatrist may scrape your nails if he or she finds debris. This sample will be sent to a lab to determine what fungus is causing the condition.

If you believe you’re experiencing a fungal toenail infection, we recommend that you speak with a podiatrist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and suggested plan for treatment.

Now offering the latest technology available for the treatment of unsightly toenail infections-the HyperBlue Plus laser. While current treatment options include prescription topicals and oral drugs both with limited success rates, laser therapy has been proven to biostimulate tissue repair and growth. The laser accelerates the healing process and deceases inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation.

• Safe, painless treatment
• No side effects or drugs
• No liver enzyme test required
• No recovery time, just walk in and walk out
• Only 10 minutes required to treat toenails on both feet

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does the laser work?
  The laser light causes a temporary increase in clear nails. The laser light passes through the toenail without causing damage to the nail or the surrounding skin. At the time of the procedure, the toenail will not become instantly clear-it takes time to grow out.
• What can I expect in the provider’s office?
  A consultation with your podiatrist, the procedure to be performed and any follow-up visits as prescribed by your podiatrist.
• Is the procedure painful?
  Most people feel no pain. Some people feel a warming sensation.
• Is there a recovery period?
  No. Just walk in and walk out.
• How long does the procedure take?
  The laser procedure takes less than 10 minutes.
• Will the fungus come back?
  Your podiatrist will recommend care techniques to reduce recurrence of the infection. There is a chance of reinfection because the fungus is present everywhere in the environment. Preventative maintenance treatments are also recommended.
• When can I paint my nails or have a pedicure?
  You can apply polish immediately after the treatment. It is important to remove all nail polish and nail decorations the day before your treatment.
• How do I pay for the treatment?
  Credit cards, cash, money orders are all accepted. You may also use your Medical IRA, Health Savings or Flexible Spending Account.
• Is this covered by my insurance?
  If you have a Health Savings Account or Medical IRA, 100% of the cost can be covered. However, in most situations, this procedure is considered aesthetic and therefore health insurance plans do not provide coverage.
• Is it FDA cleared?
  Yes, it is FDA cleared for the temporary increase of clear nail in patients with Onychomycosis.