Goodbye Embarrassment: How to Get Rid of Toenail Fungus

It’s time to wear those open-toe shoes again!

One of the best aspects of South Florida is the climate. Sure, it can get hot, but we can go outside and enjoy the amazing weather pretty much any day of the year. And if it gets too warm, you can always put on your swimsuit and jump in the pool or head over to the beach.

For many people, however, the thought of going swimming or even lying out to soak up some rays fills them with dread – and it doesn’t have anything to do with their bathing suit. Instead, they feel self-conscious about baring feet with toenail fungus. But the condition is more common than these sufferers may realize – it affects about 20 percent of the general population.

How is toenail fungus caused and what are the symptoms?

Toenail fungus stems from an overgrowth of fungi in, under, or on the toenail, which can be worsened in warm and moist environments such as pools and gym locker rooms. Women who get pedicures often also put themselves at risk for the condition, as many salons don’t properly sanitize their equipment. Symptoms of toenail fungus include darkened, yellow, or brittle toenails. The nails may also start crumbling, flaking, or falling off altogether.

Although not a serious condition, toenail fungus does have long-lasting effects, especially on a person’s confidence. Individuals often do whatever they can to hide their feet – including always wearing close-toed shoes and socks. But the extra perspiration this causes can make the fungus get worse.

At this point, battling the condition becomes a vicious cycle. Someone with a slight case of toenail fungus may think they can simply keep their feet covered until the problem goes away. The longer they cover up, the worse it may get. This is why appropriate treatment is an essential solution.

What is the best way to treat toenail fungus?

There are many methods to address the condition, but lasers are the most effective treatment. The PinPointe FootLaser is an FDA-approved device that has been clinically proven to help with curing toenail fungus. It works by hitting the fungus with a laser light and destroying it without hurting the nail or surrounding skin.

It’s virtually painless and the procedure only takes about 30 minutes over the course of three to four visits. After the fungus is removed, the nail will start to improve in appearance and should be back to its normal condition in about nine months to a year.

If you have toenail fungus, there is no need to be embarrassed. Just like any other medical condition, it needs to be addressed and treated correctly. If you would like more information about the PinPointe FootLaser, contact Dr. Nina Coletta. Call our office at 954.452.4590 or get in touch through our online form with any questions or to make an appointment today.

Dr. Nina L. Coletta has been practicing Podiatry for over twenty years. Her practice remains on the cutting edge of advancements in Podiatric Medicine, providing state-of-the-art laser treatments, three-dimensional technology to construct custom orthotics and braces, and in-house arterial and venous studies of the lower extremity. From pediatrics to mature adults, her staff provides superior care in a warm, welcoming environment.