Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute → Our Services → Toenail Fungus
Toenail Fungus

Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute

Podiatrists & Foot Surgeons located in Clinton Township, Chesterfield, Fort Gratiot, East China Township, Shelby Township, Rochester & Macomb, MI

Nail fungus can be frustratingly persistent, and you often need the help of a skilled podiatrist to put toenail fungus behind you for good. Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute, the team have safe and effective treatment options to rid your nail fungus. Book your appointment at your closest location by using the online scheduler or by phone.

FAQ

Toenail Fungus Q & A

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus is an infection below your nail. It usually starts as a single small area around the tip of your nail, but it soon spreads into the deeper layers of your skin. Toenail fungus is the same fungus as athlete’s foot, but athlete’s foot affects only your skin (usually, between the toes).

Toenail fungus causes nail damage, and it can even cause nail loss if it’s not treated properly. Not getting the fungus treated also allows it to spread to the other nails.

The symptoms of toenail fungus include:

  • White or yellow spots beneath your toenails
  • Thickened toenails
  • Ragged toenail edges
  • Crumbly or brittle nails
  • Discolored nails
  • Bumpy or otherwise-deformed nails
  • Odor coming from your nails

By the time you see these symptoms, the nail fungus is well-established, and you should seek treatment to prevent it from worsening.

Toenail fungus treatment depends on your symptoms. Your Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute podiatrist may prescribe topical creams, ointments, or oral antifungal medicine to fight toenail fungus. Be sure to finish your full course of medication, exactly as directed, to fully clear the fungus from your body.

Your podiatrist can remove the toenail surgically if necessary, but that’s usually reserved for toenail fungus that doesn’t respond to nonsurgical treatments.

After you’ve had a toenail fungus, you undoubtedly want to prevent it from ever happening again. You can do several simple things to discourage fungal infections, including:

  • Washing and completely drying your feet daily
  • Powdering your feet after you wash and dry them daily
  • Using an antifungal cream on your feet nightly
  • Always drying your feet immediately after showering, bathing, or swimming
  • Never wearing anyone else’s footwear
  • Keeping nails neatly clipped
  • Wearing cotton socks that allow your feet to breathe
  • Avoiding footwear that constricts your toes
  • Using footwear at all times when in a public pool or locker room

Your podiatrist can also recommend tips customized for you. As long as you follow these tips and always get prompt treatment when you notice the signs of fungus, you won’t have to deal with it in the future.

Use the online scheduler or call now to arrange your appointment at the Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute closest to you.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT NOW!

Other SERVICES

Sports Injuries More Info Sprained Ankle More Info PRP More Info Plantar Warts More Info Plantar Fasciitis / Heel Pain / Heel Spur More Info Pediatric Foot And Ankle Deformity Specialist More Info Orthotics Specialist More Info Neuroma More Info Ingrown Toenail More Info Hammertoe More Info Gout More Info Foot Pain More Info Foot & Ankle Trauma More Info Flat Feet More Info EPAT Specialist More Info Diabetic Foot Care More Info Corns & Calluses More Info Bunions & Bunion Surgery More Info Athlete’s Foot More Info Arthritis More Info Ankle Replacement More Info Ankle Pain More Info Achilles Tendon More Info