Nail Fungus (onychomycosis)

When it comes to nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, several factors can contribute to its development. Common causes include exposure to warm and moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or public swimming areas, compromised immunity, poor circulation, and even genetics. Fungi thrive in these conditions and can infect the nails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and brittleness.

Nail Fungus Treatment Plans

At Southeastern Podiatry, our team of podiatrists specializes in developing effective treatment plans for nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis. When patients come in with this common condition, we assess the severity and extent of the fungus to craft a personalized treatment approach.

Treatment options may include:

1. Topical Antifungal Medications: For mild cases, we often recommend using over-the-counter or prescription-strength antifungal creams, ointments, or nail lacquers.

2. Oral Antifungal Medications: In cases where the infection is more severe or resistant to topical treatments, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. These medications help attack the fungus from within the body.

3. Procedure Intervention: In rare cases of severe nail fungus that do not respond to other treatments, procedure options such as nail removal may be considered. This can help in removing the infected nail and allowing a new, healthy nail to grow.

Home Care Recommendations:

Along with the prescribed treatments, we often recommend certain home care practices to aid in the treatment of nail fungus. These may include keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing breathable socks and shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places.

If you suspect you have nail fungus or have been struggling with this condition, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced podiatrists. We are here to help you find the most effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.Treatment for nail fungus can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Over-the-counter antifungal creams and ointments may help in mild cases, but more stubborn infections often require prescription oral medications or medicated nail polishes. In some instances, laser therapy or surgical intervention may be recommended to remove the infected nail.

It is essential to consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. Early intervention can improve the outcomes and prevent the infection from spreading to other nails. Additionally, practicing good foot hygiene, wearing breathable shoes and clean socks, and keeping nails trimmed can help prevent nail fungus in the first place.

Ingrown Toenails(Onychocryptosis)

Anyone who’s had an ingrown toenail will know how painful they can be. They can even make walking difficult. They occur when the edges of the nail curves and grows into surrounding skin, causing swelling and inflammation. If left untreated, they can also lead to an infection.

Ingrown toenails can happen again and again and mostly on the big toe. We’d recommend you find out why your toenail may be growing inwards. A brief office visit will determine the cause and help you understand how to prevent them.

As a point of interest, the scientific name for ingrown toenails is onychocryptosis, not a word you often come across! Onycho- nail, crypto-hidden which is hidden nail.

What causes ingrown toenails?

The causes of ingrown toenails are most often due to:

• Cutting your toenails too short – they should be over the skin, not nestled into the skin

• Rounded nail edges – these have more opportunity to grow into the skin

• Tight fitting shoes – causing the toes to rub against the shoe

• Stubbing your toe and injuring the nailbed

• Repeated activity that creates constant friction on the toe such as running or ballet

• Genetics – this can also determine whether you get ingrown toenails due to the shape of the nail and nailbed

What you can do at home?

We’d always recommend that you pop into the clinic to treat an ingrown toenail as they are prone to infection which can get worse if not handled properly. But if you can’t make it into the clinic, you might like to try the following:

For prevention:

• Trim the nails straight across so that the edges protrude from the skin

• Don’t trim the nails too short, leave them a little a little longer so they don’t lay directly into the nailbed

• Wear proper fitting shoes and avoid any friction or rubbing on the toes

For pain relief:

• Soak your toenail in Epsom salts or soapy water for 15 minutes, this reduces swelling and inflammation

• Apply an antiseptic or antibacterial cream to the toe. We recommend Amerigel.

• Tuck bits of cotton or dental floss underneath the ingrown toenail to lift the corner of your nail and help it grow outward

• Wear loose fitting shoes to give the toe plenty of room

• Wear a toe protector which provides a cushion for the big toe against anything that might rub it make the ingrown toenail worse.

Southeastern Podiatry is here to help:

At Southeastern Podiatry, our team of experienced podiatrists offers effective medical treatments for ingrown toenails.

When you visit our clinic, the podiatrist will assess the severity of your ingrown toenail and recommend the best course of action. Depending on the case, treatment options may include:

1. Partial Nail Avulsion: This procedure involves removing part of the ingrown toenail to provide relief and prevent further complications.

2. Nail Lifting: Lifting the toenail and placing a splint beneath it can help correct its growth pattern and reduce discomfort.

3. Topical or Oral Antibiotics: In cases of infection, the podiatrist may prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection and prevent it from spreading.

4. Surgical Intervention: For recurring or severe ingrown toenails, a surgical procedure may be recommended to prevent future occurrences.

If you are experiencing pain, redness, or signs of infection around your toenail, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention. Ignoring an ingrown toenail can lead to further complications and discomfort.