TOENAIL FUNGUS

There's a Fungus Among Us!

Are you one of the millions of people who is embarrassed to show your toes inthe summer because your nails have become discolored, thickened, brittle and/or crumbling due to a fungal infection?

For most people this is considered primarily a cosmetic condition but it is
progressive and nails infected by fungus can, over time, become painful and
interfere with sensation and walking.

How is it diagnosed?

* Appearance (discolored, thick, lifting off nail bed, debris under nail)
* Starts at end of nail and grows back to cuticle
* Usually not painful until advanced
* Nail culture or examine with microscope

Who gets fungal toenails?

* Men and women, young and old
* Immune compromised people
* People with poor hygiene, sweaty feet
* People who come in contact with the fungus at health clubs, pools, nail salons

What doesn't treat nail fungus?

There is no clinical proof that things like Vick's vapor rub, bleach, Epsom salt, or vinegar cure nail fungus.

How is it treated?

Unfortunately fungal nail infections are very difficult to kill and, because toenails grow slowly, even an effective treatment takes many months before results are seen.

There is no one sure cure. When considering treatment, you should weigh thebenefits and risks of treatments:

* Topical treatments: No side effects, many choices, few that work well (Formula 3, Penlac). Over-the-counter treatments are even less effective.

* Oral medication: Lamisil (Terbinafine) or Sporanox (itraconazole). Side effects range from skin rashes to liver damage. Also not recommended for persons taking many or certain medications. Only about 50% effective.

* Laser treatment: The newest treatment. It consists of a concentrated beam of light energy applied to the nail to kill the fungus underneath. It does not affect the nail or surrounding healthy skin.
- Clinical studies show 68-88% success
- Simple and painless
- No side effects
- Results seen in about six months or more, depending on how fast your nails grow

Remember, summer and sandals are not that far away!
If you don't like the way your toenails look today, give us a call soon to schedule your free evaluation.