Many equate the summer months with wearing sandals and other open-toed shoes. However, this time of year is quite anxiety-provoking for others. If you are suffering with toenail fungus, you probably want nothing to do with flip-flops. Toenail fungus can affect just one toe or multiple toes simultaneously and is a highly contagious condition. If you notice it on one toe, it can quickly spread to others if not promptly treated. Dr. Gregory Cardinal, from Podiatrist in Motion Housecall Podiatry, offers laser treatment for toenail fungus in Alexandria, VA. This treatment is a relatively new and advanced therapy for toenail fungus.

What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Fungi called dermatophytes cause toenail fungus. If you are unlucky enough to host dermatophytes on your toes, they will feed on keratin, which is a protein in your toenails. Dermatophytes love warm and moist areas.

Here's a catch-22. The appearance of this fungus is the very reason that you may not want to wear open-toed shoes. But the fungus will multiply and get worse when wearing warm, sweaty socks and shoes. Certainly not the shoewear of choice in the hotter months.

What Are the Symptoms?

Toenail fungus will cause unattractive physical symptoms, but they won't look the same in all people. The symptoms of toenail fungus are:

• The yellowish appearance of the nail or other change in color  
• White dots appear on toenails in some cases.
• Thickening of the nail
• Warped or otherwise unnaturally shaped nails
• Peeling, brittle nails 
• Bad odor coming from the toenail
• In severe cases, separation of the toenail from the nailbed can occur

What Are the Benefits of Laser Treatment for My Toenail Fungus?

In Alexandria, VA, laser treatment for toenail fungus is one of the most effective options for treatment. It is non-invasive with no surgery or medication required. Laser treatment for toenail fungus has a higher efficacy rate than topical and oral medications. The benefits of the treatment are:

• Extremely efficient treatment, the heat from the laser kills all of the fungi
• Eliminates the fungus without causing damage to the nail or surrounding skin
• No anesthesia required
• No side effects, as may be the case with medication
• Treatment only takes 10 to 20 minutes.
• No downtime, fast recovery

Contact Us

Take advantage of laser treatment for toenail fungus in Alexandria, VA. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Cardinal at Podiatrist in Motion Housecall Podiatry to discuss this treatment for a house call or an appointment in our office by calling (703) 879-5155.