Fixing Toenail Fungus With Laser Treatment
Are you embarrassed by thick, discolored, or brittle toenails? You’re not alone: in fact, toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection that some estimates suggest it affects 1 in 10 people overall. When one looks at people 70 and older, the figure skyrockets, climbing to 50%.
If you’ve tried topical treatments with little success or you’re concerned about the side effects of oral medications, laser therapy offers a safe, effective, and convenient alternative. And in the blog below, Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists will explain why it might be the perfect solution for you!
Why Traditional Treatments Fall Short
Nail fungus often starts as a small spot and gradually spreads, causing the nail to become unsightly and sometimes painful. Many people struggling with it try over-the-counter or prescription treatments. Unfortunately, they’re often frustrated with the results.
Here’s why these traditional methods often disappoint:
- Topical Medications: These creams and lacquers must penetrate the nail to reach the infection, which can be difficult. They require diligent, long-term application (often for many months) and are generally only effective for very mild cases.
- Oral Medications: Oral antifungal medications like Lamisil can be effective for more severe infections, but they carry a risk of side effects, including potential liver or kidney damage. Regular blood tests are often required to monitor for these complications.
- Nail Removal: In more extreme cases, sometimes the best option can be removing the nail.
Laser Therapy: A Modern Solution for Fungal Nails
Laser treatment for toenail fungus is a game-changer. It offers several significant advantages:
- Targeted Action: The laser light frequency is specifically chosen to target the cell walls of the fungus. It penetrates the nail and destroys the fungal organisms without harming the surrounding healthy tissue.
- Safe and Painless: The procedure is generally painless, requiring no anesthesia. You might feel a warming sensation, but it’s typically well-tolerated.
- No Side Effects: Unlike oral medications, laser treatment has no systemic side effects.
- Fast and Convenient: A typical treatment session takes only about 10 minutes to treat both feet!
- No Recovery Time: You can walk in, have the treatment, and walk out, resuming your normal activities immediately.
How Laser Treatment Works
The laser energy targets the fungus, not the nail itself. The fungal cells absorb the laser light, which heats them up and effectively destroys them. After the treatment, the damaged fungus gradually grows out with the nail, and a new, healthy nail grows in its place. This process typically takes 3-6 months, as toenails grow relatively slowly.
What to Expect:
- Consultation: A Podiatrist will examine the nail.
- Treatment: A quick and easy 10 minutes.
- After Care: None! The laser treatment will have been completed, and you can now go about your day.
Toenail fungus is often a persistent and frustrating problem, but it doesn’t have to be. Laser therapy offers a safe, effective, and convenient alternative to traditional treatments. If you’re ready to say goodbye to fungal nails and hello to clear, healthy ones, laser treatment may be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists is here to provide compassionate care tailored to your individual foot and ankle needs. Contact our office in Chatham County at (912) 988-3323 to schedule an appointment today.
