Nail Fungus Specialist

Nail fungus is a fungal infection of one or more of your toenails. Usually, nail fungus begins as a small yellow or white spot under the tip of your toenail. However, as the fungal infection spreads and goes deeper, it causes your toenails to thicken, crumble, and change color.

In the early stages of development, nail fungus doesn’t always present symptoms. However, as the condition worsens, you may experience pain or trouble walking and standing.

Nail fungus affects everyone differently. However, common signs include:

• Thickened nails
• Yellow or brown nails
• Brittle, crumbling nails
• Distorted or warped nails

As nail fungus progresses, you might also notice a foul odor emanating from your shoes and socks.

Unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent nail fungus entirely. However, there are steps you can take to significantly lower your risk, including:

• Washing your hands and feet regularly
• Trimming your nails straight across
• Wearing sweat-absorbing socks
• Wearing shoes that allow your feet to breathe

You can also lower your risk of nail fungus by avoiding nail polish and artificial nails.

You may treat mild cases of nail fungus with over-the-counter solutions such as topical lotions and ointments. However, if these methods of care don’t provide relief, or the health of your nails continues to deteriorate, it’s important to seek professional help at Fit Feet Podiatry.

You should also make an appointment with Dr. Stepensky if you have diabetes and think you’re developing a nail fungus. Diabetes affects your circulation and may increase your risk of infection or other complications.

Treatment for nail fungus depends on the severity of your infection. Whenever possible, Dr. Stepensky uses conservative, noninvasive methods of care, such as oral and topical antifungal medications and medicated nail polish.

Dr. Stepensky also offers laser treatments with Fotona lasers. The ClearSteps™ treatment plan uses Fotona’s patented VSP Nd:YAG laser technology to safely and effectively destroy parasitic fungi. In terms of effective treatments, ClearSteps™ is near perfect. It boasts a 95% rate of effectiveness in completely eradicating toenail fungus. Plus, there’s no need for additional topical or oral treatments.

If you have a severe case of nail fungus that’s unaffected by other treatments, Dr. Stepensky might also recommend minimally invasive surgery.

Have you stopped wearing sandals, as a result of unsightly nail fungus? Dr. Stepensky, at Fit Feet Podiatry, can help. Call the office nearest you, or click the online booking tool to make your appointment today.