Fungal Toenail Treatment

Toenails that become thick, brittle, discolored, or distorted may be affected by a fungal infection known as onychomycosis. Fungal toenails can be stubborn and may become increasingly difficult to manage without appropriate treatment.

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At Brazos Foot & Ankle, we can evaluate abnormal toenails, determine whether fungus may be responsible, and discuss treatment options.

What Does Toenail Fungus Look Like?

Toenail fungus can affect one or several nails and may gradually change their appearance.

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Signs may include:

• Yellow, white, or brown discoloration

• Thickened nails

• Brittle or crumbly nail edges

• Changes in nail shape

• Debris beneath the nail

• Separation of the nail from the nail bed

• Discomfort in shoes

Not every discolored or thickened toenail is caused by fungus. Trauma and certain skin or medical conditions can produce similar changes.

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Why Is Toenail Fungus Difficult to Treat?

Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, including shoes, locker rooms, and pool areas. Once an infection becomes established in a toenail, it may be challenging to eliminate because nails grow slowly.

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Even successful treatment requires patience while healthier nail grows out.

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection, number of nails involved, your health history, and other factors.

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Options may include topical or oral antifungal medications and professional nail care when appropriate. Your provider can discuss potential benefits, limitations, and considerations associated with each approach.

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Because other conditions can resemble fungus, confirming the likely cause before beginning treatment can be valuable.

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Reducing the Risk of Reinfection

Keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, wearing breathable footwear, avoiding sharing nail tools, and wearing footwear in communal wet areas may help reduce exposure.

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If you have athlete's foot, treating the skin infection may also be important because fungus can affect both the skin and nails.

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When Should You Seek Care?

Consider an evaluation when nail changes persist, the nail becomes painful, or you're unsure what is causing the discoloration.

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Patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced sensation should be particularly careful about foot and nail problems.

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Healthier-Looking, More Comfortable Nails

You don't have to keep guessing what's happening to your toenails.

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At Brazos Foot & Ankle, we'll evaluate the problem and discuss appropriate treatment options.

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Schedule an appointment today for a professional evaluation of fungal or abnormal toenails.