Toe fungus is a very common reason that people visit the podiatrist. It may be unsightly and even embarrassing, but feel secure knowing that 1 in 10 people have it across all ages, and treatments are available. Whether you've had a breakout of fungus before or it's your first time, here is a short guide to its causes, symptoms, and treatments. 

Causes 

Toe fungus is caused by different fungi that feed off of keratin, the protein in your toenails. Through a crack in your nail, fungi get between your toenail and its bed and begin to grow. Those with weakened immune systems or bad hygiene, as well as older men, are predisposed to toe fungus.

It can spread and cause athlete's foot, a fungal infection that is found between the toes rather than on the nail. Athletes are also more susceptible to getting fungus, as their feet are kept within sweaty shoes for longer periods of time and on shared locker room floors, which are typically moist and a breeding ground for fungus.  

Symptoms

Small white or yellow dots on your toenails are one of the first signs that you are developing toe fungus. As the fungus grows, toenails will become brittle, discolored, and thick, only to begin to disintegrate. Some fungi reveal themselves differently, with darker brown nails and a foul odor.

Treatments

Most symptoms can be treated with an over-the-counter medication, but if your symptoms do not fade or if you've had recurring bouts of toe fungus, contact your podiatrist. This is especially true if you are diabetic, since you are at higher risk of complications.

Laser fungal treatment is a great way to efficiently remove it if over-the-counter and prescription medications don't work. Lasers penetrate much further than a typical topical treatment would. A 2018 study by the Lasers in Medical Science journal discovered that laser fungal treatment had almost an 84% success rate, which is great news for those struggling with a stubborn case of toe fungus.

If you are in need of toe fungus treatment, look no further than High Point Foot Center in High Point, NC. For over 17 years, their staff has treated athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, ingrown nails, hammer toes, and bunions. For healtheir feet, call them today at (336) 882-2070. Visit them online for more information.