Nail Fungus Specialist

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is an infection in a fingernail or toenail caused by fungi such as dermatophytes, yeast, or mold. It usually starts as a white or yellow area at the tip of your nail that may go on to affect the entire nail, making it look thick, discolored, and crumbly. The fungus may also deform your nail or create a foul odor.

If you had athlete’s foot, it may have spread to your toenails. Conversely, if you have a toenail fungus, it can spread to the skin between your toes and develop into athlete’s foot.

You’re at increased risk for toenail fungus if you:

• Sweat heavily
• Have a history of athlete’s foot
• Are older, with slower growing nails
• Walk barefoot in warm, moist areas such as gyms, showers, and pools
• Have a weakened immune system or other conditions, such as diabetes
• Have a small nail or skin injury
• Have a skin condition, such as psoriasis

Mild cases of toenail fungus may resolve on their own without treatment. However, if your fungus bothers you or if your toenail condition worsens, you should consult Dr. Zwiebel. If you have diabetes or other chronic conditions, a simple nail fungus can lead to a serious bacterial skin infection called cellulitis. Call Dr. Zwiebel immediately if you have diabetes or a suppressed immune system and notice the symptoms of toenail fungus.

Toenail fungus is difficult to eradicate. Depending on how severe your case is, Dr. Zwiebel may use a combination of therapies to kill the fungus, including:

• Oral therapies with antifungal agents, such as terbinafine and itraconazole, on a pulsed schedule
• Medical pedicure with ciclopirox — a medicated nail polish — and an antifungal cream
• Clearanail® – special micro-drill that creates tiny holes in the nail to allow deep penetration of antifungal treatments
• Lunula Laser –  nonsurgical laser treatment that heats the entire nail to kill the fungus