Discolored, brittle nails could be a sign of toenail fungus. Toenail fungus afflicts 15% of Americans, plaguing athletes and fitness buffs in particular. Chicagoland Foot and Ankle, with locations in the Beverly/Mt. Greenwood and Portage Park areas of Chicago, as well as Orland Park and New Lenox, Illinois, offers a laser solution to eliminate fungus with laser light. The treatment isn’t painful and avoids the need for harsh chemical creams. Find out more by calling today or booking a consultation online.
Toenail fungus is common, affecting about 15% of Americans. The fungus occurs when microorganisms enter the skin around your toes, typically when you stub your toe or through some minor injury.
As the fungus spreads, your toenails become discolored and brittle, among other symptoms. It's best to seek prompt treatment from Chicagoland Foot and Ankle to save your nail and prevent the fungus from infecting additional toes.
You may have this condition if your toenails are showing some of these signs:
Although nail fungus affects fingernails, it's more common in toenails.
Athletes and fitness buffs tend to get fungal infections because their physical activity increases their chances of toe injuries that may lead to infection.
Spending time in moist environments, such as public swimming pools, public showers, and locker rooms, also raises your risk of toenail fungus. The infections also are more common if you have diabetes or have insulin resistance.
Long-standing treatment methods include topical creams and oral medications, such as:
Although these methods are considered the gold standard because of their high success rate, the toxicity of these medications may lead you to search for alternatives.
Chicagoland Foot and Ankle offers a nontoxic laser solution to treat toenail fungus by heating it with an intense light beam. The light destroys the fungus, and then your body expels it.