Toenail Fungus Austin TX

What causes toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus (or onychomycosis) is caused by tiny fungi called dermatophytes. When dermatophytes enter the skin through tiny openings like cuts, scrapes, blisters, or even around an ingrown toenail, they “set up shop” in the nail bed under the protection of the hard nail surface. Then, the dermatophytes begin to multiply and cause infection.

The fungus that causes toenail infections tends to prefer warm, damp areas, like locker room floors, pool and hot tub decking, and public showers, and walking in these areas without shoes makes it more likely you’ll become infected. You can also develop an infection by wearing the socks or shoes of someone who has an infection. Anybody can develop a toenail fungal infection, but people with compromised immune systems and circulation problems, including those with diabetes, are more likely to contract it.

What are the symptoms of toenail fungal infections?

Toenail fungus causes symptoms like nail:

• Discoloration
• Thickening

Initially, the discoloration may appear like a small whitish or yellowish dot under the nail, but as the infection continues, the discoloration will spread to the entire nail. Over time, the nail can become brittle and ragged, and you may experience pain when you press your toe or wear shoes. Deeply infected nails also can develop a foul odor as the nail degrades.

How is toenail fungus treated?

Because the dermatophytes are rooted under the hard, protecting covering of the nail, fungal infections can be difficult to treat. Dr. LaMour uses state-of-the-art techniques to get rid of toenail fungal infections so your nails look attractive again and other symptoms like toe pain are eliminated. Since the hard nail acts as a barrier to topical medications, Dr. LaMour relies on the PinPointe laser system, an FDA-cleared laser device designed specifically for the treatment of toenail fungus.

The PinPointe laser uses deeply focused, highly precise laser energy to reach the deeper layers of tissue where the fungus is rooted, destroying the fungus at its source. Unlike oral medications that can have serious side effects, the PinPointe laser affects only the fungus, leaving the surrounding tissues (and the rest of your body) unharmed. Once the fungi are destroyed, your nails will become clearer and healthier-looking as they grow.

Is laser treatment painful?

No, most patients report a warm sensation during treatment, sometimes accompanied by tingling or minor “pinching” sensations, sort of like the sting of a rubber band. The procedure takes a half hour or less, and Dr. LaMour can perform it right in his office.