How to Tell if You Have Fungal Toenails
Since fungal toenail infections tend to develop rather slowly, they can be nearly unnoticeable in the beginning with just some minor discoloration being evident. But as the condition progresses, the fungus will have more pronounced effects that may eventually lead to nail removal to treat the underlying infection.
Early indications of a fungal toenail infection often include the following:
● White lines or spots on the surface of the toenail
● The texture of the toenails can become brittle
● Thickening of the nail may occur making them harder to trim
● The toenail may also become powdery or softened
A mild fungal toenail infection can be treated with topical and oral antifungal medications.
Signs of a more advanced fungal infection of the toenails include these:
● Deeper toenail yellow and brown discoloration will develop
● Ridges will be evident on the surface of the toenail
● The skin around the toenail looks scaly
● A terrible odor often is caused by the fungi as they feed
● Pain and discomfort while wearing shoes, walking or standing, etc….
Talk to your foot doctor about the PinPointe laser for state of the art fungal toenail treatment.
If you have a weakened immune system, poor blood circulation, or peripheral nerve complications from diabetes, you may be more susceptible to developing microbial infections.
The foot experts at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists, in the Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County Arizona, have unparalleled experience in treating all aspects of foot and ankle care. Our team of doctors: Christopher M. Funk, D.P.M., FACFAS, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, and Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, is dedicated to serving you with state-of-the-art, cutting edge medical technologies including the PinPointe FootLaser, custom-fitted orthotics, and Radial Pulse Therapy (RPT) for chronic foot, heel, or ankle pain. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please call (520) 575-0800.
