A fungus is an organism that lives in warm moist areas. Fungus of the toenails is a common problem that can affect people of all ages, although it most commonly affects individuals who are older. Toenail fungus often begins as an infection in the skin called tinea pedis (also known as athlete’s foot). A fungal infection may occur on any part of the body; on the foot, it is called athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis. Fungus commonly attacks the feet because it thrives in a dark, moist, and warm environment, such as a shoe.
Athletes often have sweaty feet and use the facilities where fungus is commonly found, thus the term "athlete's foot." Athlete's foot usually produces itchy, dry, scaling skin. It is commonly seen on the soles of the feet and in between the toes. In advanced cases, inflammation, cracks, and blisters may form; an infection caused by bacteria can also result.
Conservative Treatment
- Daily Micro-Cleansing Foot Soak - Cleansing of bacteria/fungus carried in dirt, oils, keratin debris, and sweat
- Antifungal/Nail Renewal Solution - Improve nail appearance in compromised nails, as well as subside the fungal infection
- Repair Oil Nail + Cuticle Oil - Correct discoloration, thickness and eliminate fungus
- Antifungal Shoe Spray - Eliminate foot odor and prevents fungal growth
- Nail Restoration or reconstruction
- Routine care of having it shaved down and trimmed to alleviate discomfort
Invasive Treatment
- A surgical procedure can be done that included removing the toenail and having the nail bed cleaned. The patient will recover from the procedure and monitor the growth. As the nail is growing in, an antifungal topical can be applied to prevent fungal infection in the new nail.
- Someone who has a fungal nail infection in all toenails or is predisposed to getting a nail fungus, could be determined as someone who is not a candidate to undergo the procedure due to the low chances of growing out a normal toenail.
Athletes Foot (Dry and Wet Tinea Pedis)
Conservative Treatment
- Daily Micro-Cleansing Foot Soak - Cleansing of bacteria/fungus carried in dirt, oils, keratin debris, and sweat
- Antifungal cream - Relieves itching, cracking, and burning and hydrate skin
- Antifungal Shoe Spray - Eliminate foot odor and prevents fungal growth
All patients with fungal infections are advised to properly disinfect shoes and socks. This can include spraying their shoes with a recommended shoe spray that will kill off any bacteria lingering, as well as having a hot wash cycle for all socks with bleach for the white socks. This is taking preventative care from spreading the fungal infection and avoiding the recurrence of the fungal infection. Conservative treatment is a process that takes time when trying to resolve fungal infections, but with consistency and patience, the fungal infection is more likely to subside.