Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is a common disease in which the nails are affected by various types of fungal pathogens. The aggressive influence of fungal flora can lead to discoloration, thickening and destruction of the nail plate, which not only spoils the appearance of the nails, but also causes discomfort and pain.

There are several types of fungal flora that cause different types of toenail fungus.

1. Dermatophytes (genus Trichophyton) are the most common causative agents of onychomycosis. Their main “diet” is keratin (the protein that makes up the nails). Most often, fungal damage is manifested by yellow and white spots on the nails.
2. Yeast fungus (genus Candida) – is part of the normal human microflora. Nail damage, occurs as a result of their excessive growth. The trigger to their activity can be a weakened immune system or prolonged exposure to moisture. The nails become softer and change color to yellow or brown.
3. Mold fungi (genus Scopulariopsis) – develops when creating a prolonged “greenhouse effect” between the nail plate and the coating, for example - gel varnish or tight shoes, creating an excellent environment for the development of the pathogen. These microorganisms can cause black toenail fungus, which manifests itself as dark spots and streaks under the nail plate.

All of these types of fungus can affect the entire toenail as well as parts of it, leading to various changes in its structure and appearance.

Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, under the direction of Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, provides professional diagnosis and treatment of toenail fungus. To effectively and safely get rid of fungal infections, we offer a comprehensive approach to treatment using modern methods and safe medications.

When Is Toenail Fungus Treatment Recommended?

Treatment of onychomycosis is recommended to begin at the appearance of the first signs of the disease, because the infection has a tendency to rapid progression and spread to other nails and adjacent skin.

The main symptoms that require treatment of nails

1. Discoloration 
2. Thickening, brittleness and deformity
3. Separation from the nail bed
4. Formation of itchy cracks between the fingers
5. Pain in the nail area
6. Pain when walking and wearing shoes
7. Unpleasant odor 

In all situations, a fungal infection is not only pain and discomfort, it is also esthetically unsightly. Therefore, treatment should be started as early as possible, especially when work or social life requires well-groomed nails. Early medical attention is also important for people with weakened immune system, diabetes or other chronic diseases, who are more susceptible to onychomycosis complications.

Preparation for Treatment

With any treatment process, its effectiveness depends largely on proper preparation.

Preparatory stage

Consultation with a podologist

• the doctor will conduct a visual inspection and assessment of the condition of the nails;
• determine how far the infection has spread and which areas of the nail plate are affected;
• ask about any medications you are taking to consider how they may interact with the antifungal medication;
• discuss any chronic medical conditions. For example, - diabetes may affect the choice of treatment method, as it requires a special approach to therapy;
• will order diagnostic tests to confirm the disease. 

Laboratory tests

• To exclude other possible, visually similar to the fungal infection, samples of the affected nail plate and tissue scrapings are taken for microbiological and histological examination.

Depending on the results of diagnosis, the doctor will offer several treatment options.

The Toenail Fungus Treatment Process

At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, we offer the best over-the-counter toenail fungus remedies and modern, effective approaches to treating fungal infection depending on the severity of the process and type of fungus.

Main treatment methods

Topical Medication - medications that are applied directly to the affected nail and surrounding skin.

• Antifungal ointments and creams: applied 1–2 times a day to the surface of the nail plate and the surrounding skin. Penetrating inside the plate, they stop the replication of fungal pathogens and within a few months destroy the fungus. 
• Therapeutic nail polishes: the active ingredients of the lacquer have a similar effect. The lacquer is applied daily, with the removal of the old layer before applying a new one, maintaining its effect throughout the day.

Topical lacquers act locally, which reduces the risk of systemic side effects. They are suitable for patients with mild forms of the disease or with intolerance to oral medications.

Oral Medication

Oral medications are prescribed in cases of a later stage of infection or when topical treatment is unsuccessful.

• They are antifungal drugs of the antifungal group and group of allylamines, which have fungi static and fungicidal action - stop the growth and reproduction of fungal flora and contribute to its destruction. Oral remedies for toenail fungus and their use are prescribed individually depending on the degree of nail lesions.

Laser treatment is a modern non-invasive method that is gaining popularity due to its effectiveness (up to 90%) and minimal risk of side effects.

• Removal of fungus is achieved by penetrating light waves through the nail plate and destroying fungal cells without damaging healthy tissue. The procedure is painless and takes only a few minutes.

Depending on the severity of the infection, several sessions of laser treatment may be required. Usually, 3–4 treatments with an interval of several weeks is enough. Laser therapy does not require a recovery period, and patients can return to their normal life immediately after the procedure.

Expected Outcomes

Treatment for toenail fungal infections at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic is designed to improve nail health, completely eliminate the fungus, and prevent recurring infections. 

What can you expect after receiving treatment?

Improvement in the appearance and structure of affected nails:

• color restoration;
• reduction of thickening and deformation;
• reduced brittleness and delamination.

Gradually disappears itching, unpleasant odor and painful sensations.

It should be remembered that timely treatment brings significant results: from improving the appearance and condition of the nails to the complete elimination of fungus and reducing the risk of repeated infections.

Benefits of Toenail Fungus Treatment at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic

Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic offers its patients a number of key benefits

1. Experienced specialists: our leading podiatrist-surgeon, Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating fungal nail infections, ensuring a professional and effective approach.
2. Modern treatment methods: the clinic offers advanced methods, including laser treatment, which provides high efficiency with minimal side effects.
3. Personalized approach: each patient is selected an individual therapy plan taking into account the severity of the infection and health features.
4. Comprehensive care: we focus not only on treatment, but also on prevention, which helps prevent re-infections and maintain healthy nails. 

When you choose Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, you get highly skilled care and confidence in the successful outcome of toenail fungus treatment.