Fungal Nails

Fungal Nails services offered in Great Neck and Mineola, NY

Walking barefoot at the gym may be putting you at risk for unsightly fungal nails. At Comprehensive Podiatric Care, with offices in Great Neck and Mineola, New York, Brian Lynn, DPM, MBA, understands how yellowed, infected toenails can affect your self-esteem. Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for fungal nails, including topical medications, are available to clear the infection and prevent it from spreading to other areas of your body. If you notice changes in your nail color or thickness, schedule an evaluation online or by calling Comprehensive Podiatric Care.

What causes fungal nails?

Fungal nails develop when you come into contact with bacteria that enter your body through small cracks in the skin of your feet.

In many cases, you pick up a fungal infection if you don’t wear shoes in public bathrooms, gyms, or pools. You may also be at greater risk for fungal infections when your footwear doesn’t promote good ventilation, and your feet are often hot and sweaty.

What are the symptoms of fungal nails?

Toenails that have a fungal infection become discolored, often appearing yellow. The affected nail also becomes thicker and appears ragged or distorted.

As the fungal infection in the nail becomes more advanced, it can cause severe pain and make walking difficult. If left untreated, the infection can also spread to other parts of the body.

At Comprehensive Podiatric Care, Dr. Lynn offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for fungal nails in the office to prevent long-term complications and ease pain. You should schedule an appointment as soon as you notice changes in the color or thickness of your nail. Dr. Lyn performs a foot exam and tests the fungus to determine its type.

How are fungal nails treated?

Dr. Lynn can clear the fungus with topical, over-the-counter antifungal creams and ointments.

If topical medicines aren’t enough to treat the active infection, you may also need to take oral antifungal medications and use a special medicated nail polish to rid yourself of the fungus.

In some cases, your provider may need to remove part or all of the affected toenail to relieve pressure on the toe, which causes pain. They can also trim your nails to a shorter length to make treatment more effective.

How can I prevent fungal nails?

In addition to treating active fungal infections, Dr. Lynn can recommend lifestyle changes that reduce your risk for future infections. This may include suggestions for ventilated footwear to prevent moisture buildup when wearing closed-toe shoes.

If you’re prone to sweaty feet, Dr. Lynn recommends changing your socks one or more times a day and using over-the-counter powders and other products to absorb moisture. You also need to avoid going barefoot, especially in public places.

If you have thick or discolored toenails, don’t delay a diagnostic evaluation for fungal nails. You can schedule a consultation at Comprehensive Podiatric Care online or by calling the office.