Many times the distinquishing of toenail fungus vs other kinds of diseases of the foot is difficult. Discoloration of the skin on the foot or toenails does not necessarily mean that you are affected by toenail fungus. Because a misdiagnosis can lead to mistaken treatment plans, it is very necessary for the public to understand the symptoms of toenail fungus specifically. Early detection of the fungus also will assist you in a complete cure. If your nails are gradually becoming yellowish or brownish then there is a good possibility that you have been affected by fungi. It is followed by a noticable thickening of nail, dryness of the skin surrounding the nail area, and brittleness of the nail itself. If at all in doubt, it is best to see a doctor specialized in diseases of the foot.

In order to avoid extreme cases where the entire nail is lost, it is important to begin treatment quickly if you suspect you have acquired toenail fungus. Another consideration that should motivate you toward early treatment is that infected nails have a great propensity to infect the adjacent nails, causing the fungus to spread form toenail to toenail. The big toenail is most commonly affected by the early signs of toenail fungus. In the advanced stages of the fungus, the toenail falls off completely. A podiatrist/dermatologist is qualified to give you a prescription for topical treatments, although these have a poor rate of success. Early signs of toenail fungus are often confused with athlete’s foot, and although the root cause is the same (fungus,) they are different from each other in many ways. Be careful because it is quite easy to misdiagnose your condition, and applying the wrong treatment can make things worst. The best plan of action until you can see a board certified podiatrist is to trim away the infected area so as to prevent the spreading of the infection. When you are able to see a doctor, he will appropriately diagnose your condition and , start the treatment as soon as possible.

Testing is always advisable by a board certified podiatrist because signs of toenail fungus may be easily mistaken for another kind of disease. Take note that fungi are responsible for this condition, and early detection is a huge help to the success of the treatment. Although there are many types of treatment on the market, the single most effective is the Pinpointe Foot Laser treatment, available at Total Foot Wellness. This treatment, unlike internal medicines and topical creams, destroys the fungus at the root, and below the nail bed where it lives. Topical creams have only a minimal chance of contacting the infected area below the nail, and thus are very ineffective. Internal medicines have a danger element as they can potentially effect your liver, and have a poor success rate as well. It is highly recommended to visit a Total Foot Wellness location at the first signs of infection.

If you suspect that you have toenail fungus, contact Total Foot Wellness at 800-808-1779 or fill out the consultation request on this site..


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• Footcare Prevention