| You probably don’t know it, but there’s a professional way to deal with fungal nail issues. |
If you’re dealing with a fungal nail infection, the first step is to consult your fungal nail treatment podiatrist Adelaide for diagnosis. When you first visit a podiatrist for fungal nail treatment, they will assess your nail’s condition and determine the infection’s severity. It might involve removing a small piece of the nail for lab testing to confirm the presence of a fungus. The podiatrist may also examine your medical history and any previous treatments you’ve attempted.
A fungal nail infection, likewise known as onychomycosis, is a prevalent condition that starts as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail or fingernail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, it’ll cause your nail to discolour, thicken and crumble at the edge, leading to discomfort or even pain. But pain isn’t the only concern here, as fungal nail infections can be embarrassing and difficult to deal with. It’s estimated that up to 20% of adults could have a fungal infection on their hands or feet at any time.
Professional fungal nail treatment usually involves a multi-step process. The first step is often to trim and thin the affected nails. It reduces pressure on the nail and allows the treatment to penetrate more effectively. The podiatrist might use a device to file down the nail surface, improving its appearance and making it easier for topical treatments to reach the fungus.
Depending on the severity of the infection, the podiatrist might recommend a topical treatment, an oral antifungal medication, or a combination of both. Topical treatments are ointments or creams applied directly to the nail, but they may not fully reach the fungus if the infection is deep within the nail. Oral medications are often more effective, but they can have side effects. For example, some medications can cause photosensitivity and other gastrointestinal issues.
The podiatrist may recommend lifestyle changes to help prevent reinfection. It could include frequent nail trimming, wearing socks made from breathable fabrics, regularly changing your shoes and socks, and avoiding going barefoot in public places.
The podiatrist might recommend a surgical procedure to remove the nail in severe cases. It allows the direct application of the antifungal drug to the infected area and the creation of a new, healthy nail.
Likewise, the podiatrist will provide advice to help prevent future infections. It may include recommendations for proper footwear, maintaining good foot hygiene, and using antifungal powders or sprays.
It’s important to remember that fungal nail infections can be stubborn, and treatment may take several months to clear the infection completely. In other words, there is no overnight solution here, and it’s important to remain patient and consistent with the treatment procedure. With the right approach, however, you can effectively treat your fungal nail infection and get your nails looking healthy and normal again.
Fungal nail treatment podiatrist Adelaide carried out by a podiatrist is a professional, comprehensive approach to managing and overcoming this common but often distressing condition. Podiatrists play an integral role in helping patients regain their nail health by combining medical treatment with advice and guidance on prevention.
