Toenail Fungus Specialist

What is toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus is a condition that develops when your foot is exposed to a fungus, known as onychomycosis. This fungus can infect any of your toenails and often enters into the nails through small cracks in your nails.

If the infection travels into the areas between your toes or on other areas of your feet, you can develop another infection, known as athlete’s foot.

Your risk factors for developing a fungal infection in your toenails increase as you age and also if you:

• Sweat heavily
  
• Have diabetes
  
• Frequently walk barefoot
  
• Have existing skin conditions, like psoriasis
  

When you have a history of recurrent athlete’s foot, you may also be at increased risk for frequent toenail fungal infections.

If you have diabetes and you develop a fungal infection in your toenails, you need immediate care from a diabetic foot care specialist, such as Dr. Ebanks.

What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?

When a fungal infection gets into your toenails, your nails become thick and discolored. Your nail edges may also begin to crumble. Other common symptoms of toenail fungus include:

• Distorted nails
  
• Dark-colored nails
  
• Foul-smelling odor
  

Thickened nails and the infection itself can cause pain, and the unsightly look of your toenails may cause you embarrassment.

How is toenail fungus treated?

Treating toenail fungus in the earliest stages is important for preventing permanent damage to your nails. If you try over-the-counter products without success, Dr. Ebanks may prescribe oral or topical antifungal medications to address the infection.

If you have a severe infection and advanced nail damage, Dr. Ebanks may surgically remove the affected toenails and apply an antifungal drug to the skin under your nail to treat an active infection.

Dr. Ebanks also provides foot care resources to prevent long-term nail damage and the return of the fungal infection. These preventive strategies include proper foot hygiene and nail trimming techniques.

You should also wear high-quality socks that absorb sweat, and make sure to change your socks daily. Opt for breathable footwear and always wear shoes, especially when you’re in public bathrooms and walking around swimming pools.

If you have diabetes, Dr. Ebanks works closely with you through his diabetic foot care services to ensure your diabetes is well-controlled and your feet are healthy and free of infections, ulcers, and other related complications.

If your toenails are yellow and crumbling, don’t delay treatment for toenail fungus. You can book an appointment online or by calling Foot and Ankle Clinic of MidFlorida today.