Tinea pedis, commonly called athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection that often is easy to treat with topical solutions. This infection is caused by dermatophytes that also can invade the toenails. Unfortunately, eliminating fungi there tends to be difficult. A person dealing with this problem may want to seek help from a foot doctor who treats toenail fungus in Plainfield.
About Toenail Fungus
Dermatophytes only penetrate keratin, the dead tissue that makes up the top layer of skin and most of the nails. Topical solutions are effective on the skin because the substances don’t need to reach further down. However, since nails contain layers of dead tissue, the fungi can live inside. It also may infect the skin under the nail where topical applications cannot reach. The situation worsens if fungi invade the matrix, where cells manufacture the rest of the nail.
Conservative Therapy
Podiatrists generally offer a few approaches for treating toenail fungus in Plainfield. Conservative therapy includes applying an over-the-counter lacquer that does not eliminate fungi but prevents these microbes from growing. Prescription topical antifungal medicine sometimes helps. Keeping the nails trimmed short is important for limiting fungal growth.
Other Options
Some patients may be interested in an oral anti-fungal drug available by prescription. They may need to take it for a full 12 weeks. This is not advisable for everyone because of possible side effects the podiatrist can explain. Another option is surgical nail removal. Doctors typically do not recommend this except for severe cases. The nail has become very thick and crumbly and may be painful.
Details on a foot doctor who treats toenail fungus in Plainfield can be viewed at Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates.
