Laser treatment for toenail fungus is offered in several medical centers. It zaps away the fungus that causes ugly and discolored nails. There is little published information about this procedure but early results indicate that it is a reasonable option for individuals who want to escape the side effects caused by oral medications. There are several causes of this condition. Some people are genetically prone to it. Other risk factors include aging, perspiring heavily, psoriasis, minor nail or skin injury, diabetes, circulation problems among other infections.
A mild case of this infection is a cosmetic problem which can be treated easily. However, if left unattended to it is likely to progress to painful conditions. Pain is experienced when walking which may interfere with the mobility of an individual.
There are several measures that are very helpful to avoid cases where the condition may emerge again after treatment. In most cases, doctors recommend a scrupulous hygiene program. This may involve avoiding going barefoot in public areas, washing and drying feet on a daily basis, regularly using anti-fungal sprays for the feet and shoes and changing socks on a daily basis.
The recommended approach to this problem is to consult a skin specialist (dermatologist) or a medical expert specializing in foot conditions. These specialists provide useful information about the cost, potential complications, follow up care required, medications needed among others. It is a good idea to prepare very well for any appointment with these specialists. This may involve preparing questions in advance, listing current symptoms, key personal information, and any medications being used. .
The diagnosis involves an examination of the nails. In most cases, the doctor scrapes debris from the nails for analysis and to test for fungi. The debris is examined under a microscope and cultured to identify the exact cause of the infection. This is necessary to determine the best course of treatment. Microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast can infect the nails. Conditions such as psoriasis may also mimic a fungal infection.
In many hospitals and health centers it is usually considered to be an outpatient case. To enhance the effectiveness of the laser, most doctors file the surface of the infected nails. The procedure is painless and patients only experience a warming sensation as the laser is passed over the nails. There are no complications whatsoever and normal duties can be resumed immediately. The number of treatment sessions required for complete healing will vary form one individual to another.
The treatment lasts for about 30 to 40 minutes. Depending on the laser used and the severity of the condition, patients need one to four sessions. It takes about one year for the toes to clear entirely. The laser inhibits fungal growth paving the way for the natural mechanism of the body to clear the nail. Many studies have found that a majority of people who undergo the procedure are satisfied with the results.
The emergence of laser treatment for toenail fungus has greatly revolutionized the treatment of fungal infections affecting the toenails. It has been proved to be more effective than a majority of oral medications. It is safe as the beams are targeted on the nails without causing any harm to the surrounding areas of the foot. Patients are able to get long lasting results by using topical anti-fungal creams and follow up care.
A mild case of this infection is a cosmetic problem which can be treated easily. However, if left unattended to it is likely to progress to painful conditions. Pain is experienced when walking which may interfere with the mobility of an individual.
There are several measures that are very helpful to avoid cases where the condition may emerge again after treatment. In most cases, doctors recommend a scrupulous hygiene program. This may involve avoiding going barefoot in public areas, washing and drying feet on a daily basis, regularly using anti-fungal sprays for the feet and shoes and changing socks on a daily basis.
The recommended approach to this problem is to consult a skin specialist (dermatologist) or a medical expert specializing in foot conditions. These specialists provide useful information about the cost, potential complications, follow up care required, medications needed among others. It is a good idea to prepare very well for any appointment with these specialists. This may involve preparing questions in advance, listing current symptoms, key personal information, and any medications being used. .
The diagnosis involves an examination of the nails. In most cases, the doctor scrapes debris from the nails for analysis and to test for fungi. The debris is examined under a microscope and cultured to identify the exact cause of the infection. This is necessary to determine the best course of treatment. Microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast can infect the nails. Conditions such as psoriasis may also mimic a fungal infection.
In many hospitals and health centers it is usually considered to be an outpatient case. To enhance the effectiveness of the laser, most doctors file the surface of the infected nails. The procedure is painless and patients only experience a warming sensation as the laser is passed over the nails. There are no complications whatsoever and normal duties can be resumed immediately. The number of treatment sessions required for complete healing will vary form one individual to another.
The treatment lasts for about 30 to 40 minutes. Depending on the laser used and the severity of the condition, patients need one to four sessions. It takes about one year for the toes to clear entirely. The laser inhibits fungal growth paving the way for the natural mechanism of the body to clear the nail. Many studies have found that a majority of people who undergo the procedure are satisfied with the results.
The emergence of laser treatment for toenail fungus has greatly revolutionized the treatment of fungal infections affecting the toenails. It has been proved to be more effective than a majority of oral medications. It is safe as the beams are targeted on the nails without causing any harm to the surrounding areas of the foot. Patients are able to get long lasting results by using topical anti-fungal creams and follow up care.
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