Thick, yellowed toenails may be the first warning signs of a fungal infection. At New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery, the podiatry team offers comprehensive care for fungal toenails. They can prescribe medications to clear the infection and also offer guidance to reduce your risk for recurrent infections and permanent toenail damage. If you have discolored nails or other symptoms of fungal toenails, call the podiatry office in Richmond or Farmville, Virginia, to schedule an appointment or book one online today.
Fungal toenails develop when a fungus enters your body through cuts or cracks in the skin of your toes.
Different types of fungi are common in your everyday environment and thrive in damp, warm places, like sweaty socks and poorly ventilated shoes. Fungal infections can easily spread from your skin into your toenails, where they can cause symptoms like abnormally thick nails and discoloration.
If left untreated, a fungal infection can also lead to the separation of your nail from the nail bed.
While anyone can develop fungal toenails, your risk increases as you age and if you:
You may also be at increased risk for fungal toenails if you walk around barefoot in public places, especially locker room showers or community pools.
The team at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery can diagnose a fungal infection during a physical exam. They may also need to scrape a sample of your toenail for further testing to determine what kind of fungus is causing the infection. This type of testing is important because some types of fungal infections can spread to other parts of your body.
Your treatment plan for fungal toenails typically involves topical or oral antifungal medications to clear the infection. Treating advanced infections may require in-office procedures to remove part or all of the nail, so it can grow back healthy.
The team at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery also offers comprehensive resources to prevent recurrent fungal infections.
Proper foot care is essential for preventing any type of toenail infection. Care involves washing your feet and between your toes daily with soap and water. You should also dry your feet thoroughly.
The podiatrists at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery can also show you how to properly trim your toenails to prevent ingrown toenails. Keeping your nails at a short length also helps remove unnecessary pressure that can damage your nails.
If you frequent locker rooms, pools, or other damp places, be sure to wear shoes.
For more fungal infection prevention tips or to learn more about your treatment options for fungal toenails, call the office of New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery nearest you or book a consultation online today.
