What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also know as onychomycosis, is the most common nail plate disease. Besides the discoloration, it also causes changes to the nail plate and nail bed. If your nail plate is abnormal, thickened, and/or discolored medical attention is needed. Catching the infection before spread is key to complete resolution of the disease. Many times the abnormal shape of the nail plate, due to the onychomycosis, can cause ingrown nails and pain to the nail bed. The thickened nature of the nail plate makes it more susceptible to trauma from shoe gear and can cause bleeding underneath nail plates. This can be especially dangerous to the diabetics.
At California Foot and Ankle we understand the concern with fungal nails, not only aesthetically but also medically. We will thoroughly educate you on the type of fungus and discuss all treatment options available, including the new NaiLase treatment with laser. We evaluate the structure of your nail plate and discuss the realistic outcomes.
How contagious is toenail fungus?
Fungal infections are contagious. Having one type of fungal infection can make you susceptible to other types. Trichophyton Rubrum, known to cause toenail fungus, is also a pathogen that causes athlete’s foot. Both types of infection can be picked up from communal showers/locker rooms, nail salons, and sharing of nail instruments.
At California Foot and Ankle not only do we evaluate your toenails but also the rest of the foot to catch different types of fungal infections. We will discuss prevention and re-infections. We will thoroughly educate you on the type of fungus and discuss all treatment options available, including the new NaiLase treatment with laser.
California Foot and Ankle Associates have been providing state of the art and personalized care to residents of Orange County for 20 years. Dr. Philip Radovic treats all foot and ankle ailments. To find out more information on the laser or other new cutting-edge treatments, please visit www.feetfixer.com.
