What is Nail Fungus?
A fungal infection in the nail is most often first noticeable by a change in color or texture. At Dermatology Southeast, Dr. Mary Pentel can effectively detect and treat toenail fungal infections, also known as onychomycosis. A more advanced form of treatment may be needed if you have tried to take care of the problem yourself with over-the-counter medications, like anti-fungal topical creams, with no success. Since a fungus is difficult to eradicate with at-home remedies, laser treatment with Fotona ClearSteps® may be the better option for treating you nail fungus. Additionally, if it is not a fungal infection, then we can also address that at your initial consultation. Contact our Jacksonville, FL facility to learn more about laser nail fungus treatments and to schedule an appointment with our skilled team.
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Should I Have Nail Fungus Treatment?
If you have concerns about the look or condition of your toenails, you should make an appointment at Dermatology Southeast. A few of the most typical symptoms and signs of a nail disorder are abnormalities you can see or feel in the nail, including:
- Grooves or bumps
- Changes in color
- Brittleness or thinning
- Swelling around or under the nail
- A unpleasant, foul odor
- A thicker texture to the toenail that makes it hard to cut
It is important to seek professional help when over-the-counter treatment prove to be ineffective. Dr. Pentel will be able to create a treatment plan to eradicate nail fungus and improve toenail health.
How is the Nail Fungus Treatment Performed?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Pentel and her team will exam you toenail to detect the condition. Next, we will go over your treatment options, depending on your diagnosis. When it is determined that you are an ideal candidate for laser treatment, we can provide it with the use of the ClearSteps technology in our Jacksonville office. The handheld laser will gently pass over the nail bed, and there is no need for numbing creams or local anesthetic injections. Every toe that is infected will be under the laser for approximately ten minutes each. If needed, you may be prescribed an antifungal oral and/or topical medication to further treat the toenail.
What to Expect Following Treatment
Following your treatment, there is no downtime needed. Though your results may not appear immediately, your toenail should grow back healthier within a few weeks. Many patients may require a series of treatments to effectively eradicate the toenail fungus. During your initial consultation, Dr. Pentel will curate an effective number of treatments through a personalized plan to ensure your optimal results. Additionally, preventive laser treatments can be offered to help keep the fungus from returning.
Schedule Your Nail Treatment
At Dermatology Southeast, we understand that dealing with toenail fungus can be both painful and embarrassing. Thankfully, laser treatment with Fotona ClearSteps can effectively eradicate toenail fungus. Learn more about your treatment options by contacting our Jacksonville, FL office to schedule your initial consultation.