Nail Fungus

Although nail fungus can be unsightly and painful, it’s common, and your risk for developing a nail fungal infection increases with age. Fortunately, Kaveh Panahi, DPM, at Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons, offers effective care for nail fungus to patients of all ages in Peoria and Phoenix, Arizona. If you have discoloration or thickening of your toenails, it’s important to seek treatment — this can avoid permanent damage or passing an infection along to others. To book an appointment, call the practice today or reach out online.

What are the symptoms of nail fungus?

When fungi enter small cracks in your nail or the surrounding skin, it can cause an infection.

Fungal infections usually begin in a corner of your toenail and spread to the other parts of your nail plate. You may experience symptoms, such as:

• Yellowish discoloration 
• Nail thickening
• Brittle debris under your nail plate
• Nail deformity 
• Pain 
• Ingrown toenails 

The affected area may become progressively harder to treat and eventually become permanently damaged, so you should seek out treatment immediately when you notice symptoms appear.  

Because several other conditions can cause nail discoloration similar to a fungal infection, it’s important to have Dr. Panahi examine your toenail. In some cases, he may collect a small sample to send to a pathology lab. The lab can help correctly identify the nature of the deformity.

What are my treatment options for nail fungus?

Once Dr. Panahi has correctly identified the fungal infection, he treats it with prescription antifungal medication. He prescribes one of two effective medications with different levels of potency.

Over-the-counter antifungal medications and other home remedies are only effective on mild fungal infections. See Dr. Panahi if your symptoms worsen or persist despite treatment.

Dr. Panahi may also perform debridement — the process of removing dead skin and foreign material from your toenail. This can help to reduce the risk of future infection and promote healing.

The KeryFlex™ Nail Restoration system is an innovative new solution offered at Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons to restore your toenails to their original appearance. KeryFlex utilizes polymer resins that bond to your damaged toenail to form an artificial nail. The nail is durable, flexible, and natural-looking. 

The painless procedure typically takes about 15 minutes and Dr. Panahi performs it in the Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons office. You can immediately return to your regular activities post-procedure. 

How can I prevent nail fungus in the future? 

Regardless of your treatment method, Dr. Panahi encourages you to maintain your nail hygiene and to keep them hydrated. You can utilize supplements like biotin, which can improve the quality of your nails and promote healthy growth.

You should also avoid wearing tight and narrow shoes — this can result in repeated injuries to your toenails and make it easier for fungus to infect them.

To learn more about effective nail fungus care, call Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons today at 623.439.2200 or reach out online.