Toenail Fungus

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that's trapped under your nail. Toenail fungus usually affects the big toe, but it can easily spread to your other foot and/or your other toes which makes it harder to get rid of the fungus. This type of infection is quite persistent and is hard to treat with over-the-counter remedies, so it's important to reach out to the Meridian Podiatry team when you notice fungal toenail symptoms. 

What does toenail fungus look like?

Toenail fungus changes a nail's appearance, often drastically. Some of the most common characteristics of toenail fungus are:

• Ragged nail edges
• Crumbling nails
• White or yellow spots on your nails
• Nail thickening or other warping
• Nail darkening

In addition to the obvious visual symptoms, you could also smell a foul odor from the nail. In severe cases, your nail might partially separate from the skin and could leak pus.

Where does toenail fungus come from?

Toenail fungus comes from a fungal infection. Several kinds of fungi cause toenail fungus, but the most common are dermatophytes, a fungus that causes athlete's foot. 

You can get toenail fungus whenever you have an entry point in your skin, so any tiny cut on your foot could allow the fungus to enter. Fungi grow in moist, warm places like public swimming pools and gym locker rooms, so remember to wear sandals or other shoes instead of walking barefoot. 

What is the best way to eliminate toenail fungus?

Your Meridian Podiatry provider may recommend a combination of topical treatment, laser therapy, and/or oral antifungal medication to address fungal nail infections.

Meridian Podiatry offers advanced laser therapy for effective toenail fungus treatment, along with KeryFlex nail restoration treatments. This laser approach is both safe and efficient in eliminating toenail fungus without causing pain or any potentially harmful side effects associated with oral medication. KeryFlex enhances the appearance of your toenail while you undergo antifungal treatments.

Additionally, you may receive guidance on adopting new techniques for nail trimming and overall nail care while the infection persists. Treating toenail fungus promptly is crucial in preventing its spread to other nails, skin, and potentially to other members of your household.

To learn more about treatments for toenail fungus, as well as our medical pedicure treatments, call Meridian Podiatry or request an appointment online today.

Laser Treatment      

KeryFlex Treatment