How do you get toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus is a common infection caused by one of several fungal organisms, most frequently dermatophyte. Yeast or molds can also cause toenail infections. Fungus can infect your fingernails, but it’s more common in your toenails. When a fungus infects the areas between your toes, it’s called athlete’s foot.
You may be at a greater risk of a toenail infection if you:
- Sweat heavily
- Are older and have been exposed to fungi over the years
- Have reduced blood flow in your feet
- Have a history of athlete’s foot
- Walk barefoot in public pools or gym locker rooms and showers
- Have another skin condition such as psoriasis
- Have diabetes
- Have a weakened immune system
- Have intestinal yeast infection, Candidiasis.
What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?
Common symptoms of a toenail fungal infection may include:
- Thickened, yellowish nails
- Brittle, crumbly nails
- Distorted nail shape
- Darkened area of debris buildup under your nail
- Foot odor
If you’ve tried over-the-counter remedies, but your toenails aren’t clearing up, it’s a good idea to seek medical treatment.
How is toenail fungus treated?
Toenail fungus is a common problem that’s often resistant to conventional medical treatments. While various drugs are used to treat this foot problem, they often come with adverse side effects, cause allergic reactions, or only temporarily relieve the issue, allowing the fungal infection to return once you stop taking the medicine.
Dr. Robins has developed new treatment strategies using medical ozone therapy and probiotics to improve and even eliminate the problem of toenail fungus. This method addresses the root cause and the underlying infection at the nail base.
Will ozone therapy and probiotics work for me?
Whether or not probiotics and ozone therapy will work for your toenail fungus depends on your specific condition and symptoms. During a thorough exam and consultation, Dr. Robins examines your feet and recommends the best course of treatment to help resolve both your symptoms and the underlying cause of your toenail fungus.
To learn more about the various treatment options for your toenail fungus, or to address other foot problems, call or schedule a consultation.
