Toenail fungus can be a pesky and persistent problem, affecting the appearance and health of your nails. But with the right treatments and prevention strategies, you can bid farewell to toenail fungus and step confidently towards healthier, happier feet. There are different types of treatments you can consider for removing toenail fungus and it will depend on the severity of your condition. Dr. Laura Michetti and Dr. Courtney Palmer at First Choice Podiatry in Annapolis, MD, can explain how to deal with toenail fungus and prevent it from occurring in the future.

Managing Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus appears when you’re exposed to the bacteria and can cause symptoms such as:

• Thickened and discolored nails
• Brittle, crumbly, or ragged nails
• Distorted nail shape
• Foul odor
• Pain and discomfort

There are several treatments for toenail fungus that your podiatrist in Annapolis, MD, may recommend. This includes topical antifungal medications. This is best for mild to moderate cases and helps by penetrating the nail and killing the fungus. In cases of severe fungus, your podiatrist may prescribe oral antifungal medications.

Laser therapy can target the fungus and penetrate through the nail without harming the skin or tissue surrounding the fungus. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the infected nail.

To prevent toenail fungus, you should:

• Keep your feet clean and dry
• Wear breathable footwear
• Protect your feet in public areas
• Keep your toenails trimmed
• Avoid sharing personal items
• Always wear clean socks
• Wear sandals or shower shoes in public pools and locker rooms

Contact Our Podiatrist Today

Find out how you can deal with toenail fungus. Contact Dr. Michetti and Dr. Palmer at First Choice Podiatry in Annapolis, MD, to learn more about toenail fungus and how to treat and prevent it! Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (443) 332-2300.