Fungal nails, also known as onychomycosis, can be unsightly and cause discomfort. This common condition occurs when fungi infect the toenails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and brittleness. At Illinois Podiatry Specialists, our experienced team offers effective fungal nail treatment in Hinsdale and Glendale Heights, restoring the health and appearance of your nails.
The Condition
Fungal nails, medically known as onychomycosis, are a common condition caused by a fungal infection of the toenails. It typically begins with the invasion of fungi into the nail bed, leading to discoloration, thickening, and brittleness of the nails. As the infection progresses, the nails may become crumbly, distorted, and emit a foul odor. Fungal nails can be unsightly and cause discomfort, but with the right treatment from Illinois Podiatry Specialists, you can restore the health and appearance of your nails.
The Symptoms:
- Discoloration of the nails
- Thickening of the nails
- Brittleness or crumbling of the nails
- Distorted nail shape
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
- Foul odor emanating from the infected nails
- Pain or discomfort in the affected area
To learn more about the symptoms of fungal nails and fungal nail treatments in Hinsdale and Glendale Heights, contact us today for an appointment.
Possible Causes:
- Fungal Infection: Fungal nails are primarily caused by the overgrowth of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeast, or molds, which thrive in warm and moist environments, such as public showers or swimming pools.
- Poor Foot Hygiene: Inadequate foot hygiene, including infrequent washing, improper drying of the feet, or wearing damp socks, can create a conducive environment for fungal growth.
- Nail Trauma: Trauma to the nail, such as an injury or repetitive pressure, can weaken the nail’s integrity and make it more susceptible to fungal infection.
- Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or autoimmune disorders, are at a higher risk of developing fungal nail infections because the body can’t fight off the fungi.
Prevention Strategies:
- Practice good foot hygiene
- Keep feet clean and dry
- Wear breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks
- Use antifungal powders or sprays
- Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
- Change socks and shoes regularly
- Trim nails properly and avoid sharing nail clippers or other pedicure tools
- Protect feet in communal areas (e.g., wear flip-flops in public showers)
- Choose well-fitting shoes with adequate room for toes
To learn more about how to prevent a fungal nail and options for fungal nail treatments in Hinsdale and Glendale Heights, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Treatment Options:
- Topical Antifungal Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription antifungal creams or ointments can be applied directly to the infected nails. These medications penetrate the nail and surrounding tissue to eliminate the fungal infection.
- Oral Antifungal Medications: For severe or resistant cases of fungal nail infections, prescription oral medications may be necessary. These medications are ingested and reach the infection through the bloodstream, effectively targeting the fungus from within.
- Nail Removal: In severe cases of fungal nail infections that do not respond to other treatments, partial or complete removal of the affected nail may be considered. This involves removing the infected nail tissue, allowing for the promotion of new, healthy nail growth.
At Illinois Podiatry Specialists, we conduct thorough evaluations to identify the root cause of your fungal nails. By considering your symptoms and medical history and performing diagnostic tests, we develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Our goal is to effectively treat the infection with various options for fungal nail treatments in Hinsdale and Glendale Heights, restore the health of your nails, and prevent future occurrences.
Schedule Your
Podiatry Consultation
Illinois Podiatry Specialists is home to board-certified foot and ankle specialists committed to providing personalized treatment options for fungal nails. Whether you require conservative or surgical interventions, our experts will design a customized treatment plan based on your unique needs and goals. With minimal-to-no wait time, schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards healthier, fungus-free nails.
Contact Illinois Podiatry Specialists Today
Illinois Podiatry Specialists Hinsdale
950 N York Rd, Suite 105
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Illinois Podiatry Specialists Glendale Heights
701 Winthrop Ave Floor, Ste. 101
Glendale Heights, IL 60139
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