A “how to” on common, stubborn skin fungus – Cleveland professionals treat nail infections

The skin can be hotbed for fungus, because these microorganisms feed off keratin — the protein that makes up the outermost layer of skin, hair, and nails. For this reason, fungal infections can be an irritating, unattractive, and even painful (if left to progress) condition affecting each of the areas where keratin is present.

At Seriously Skin, we have the ability to treat a common and frequently stubborn type of skin fungus.

Toenail infections

If you’ve ever cut your toenail way too short or stubbed your toe, you know how sensitive the area can be. Our nails serve as a protective covering and as they’re on our feet, they are exposed to a lot. So perhaps it comes as no surprise that the nails on our feet are twice as likely to develop infections as the nails on our fingers.

Called onchomycosis and tinea unguium, nail fungus is different from the organism that causes athlete’s feet — tinea pedis.

What starts as white or yellow spots on the tip of your nail may progress to discoloration, thickening and crumbling at the edges — a sign the infection itself is deepening.

Over time, the nails may separate from the skin; you may feel pain or detect an unpleasant smell.

Nail abnormalities are also signs of underlying conditions, including diabetes, circulatory, and immune system problems.

Treatments

After more serious, undiagnosed conditions are ruled out, we can consider a number of ways to stop the itch, unsightly appearance, and pain:

• Medications – Antifungal pills, ointments, creams
• Lasers – Light-based therapies may be used alone or with medicated creams
• Surgery – For severe or very painful cases, the nail may be removed and often grows back in place within 12 months

You may also benefit from a combination of OTC products and good home care, such as trimming to reduce pressure on the nails. If athlete’s foot is present, you’ll want to keep your feet clean, dry, and use medicated powders and sprays.

We know how to treat skin fungus in the Cleveland area. Stopping this persistent and uncomfortable condition is only a phone call away to our offices in Chagrin Falls.