Here’s why Toenail Fungus is on the Rise

Does it feel like toenail fungus is popping up all the time? Well, there’s good reason! According to scientific studies,  fungal infections hit your toes and feet more than any other place on the body. Why is that the case? This blog will explain why you develop toenail fungus. And help offer treatment options so it doesn’t come back.

 

What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Fungus grows in humid areas, especially our feet.  Our feet are most prone to fungus when they’re inside shoes, where it can be the warmest. The worst cases of foot fungus happen between the webbing of your toes and around the toenails.

According to the study, that makes perfect sense. Our feet are “Enclosed in this tight container called the shoe and it gets hot and humid in there, which are the conditions that fungi like,” says  Dr. David Relman, a professor of microbiology and immunology at Stanford University School of Medicine in Palo Alto, Calif. The study also hopes future research will explore barefoot cultures, to see if they get fewer cases of toenail fungus.

There may be steps to avoid getting fungal toenails, but no step guarantees that this condition will never be a problem.  If you are suffering from fungal toenails you should seek the care of a podiatrist such as Dr. Brad Bachmannof Louetta Foot and Ankle Specialists, P.A. Dr. Bachmann can diagnose your problem as well as provide you with treatment options.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. It’s a form of infection, and usually begins when you notice a yellow or white spot under your nails, most often your big toenail.  (We also call this infection onychomycosis.) Fortunately, there are several methods ways we can resolve your fungal toenail.

Antibiotics 

Lamisil is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body.  Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free.

Sandals or open-toed shoes can help as well. Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well

Alternative Treatments

Those who are skeptical or unsure of using Lamisil containing terbinafine may consider the following:

– Alcohol, tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide, or Vicks VapoRub may help as well.

There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection. Finally,  laser treatment can help clear up stubborn toenail fungus that won’t respond to other treatment methods.

If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices in Houston, TX and The Woodlands, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.