Guide To Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus

By Jayne Rutledge


Onychomycosis, the medical term for a fungal infection that occurs on the toenails, is a condition that results in a thickened nail. It can also cause the edges of the nail to become brittle and yellowed. The condition usually becomes known when a white spot appears. Eventually, it will spread to the entire nail and possible other nails. This fungal infection can be hard to get rid of and can easily return if it is not treated properly. Laser treatment for toenail fungus is a fairly new method that may get rid of fungal infections of the nail.

Fungal infections pose a wide range of issues and symptoms. They cause the nail to become discolored and thickened. The texture of the nail can also change. It is also common for nails to become flaky and change their shape. Detachment from the bed is likely if the condition continues without proper treatment.

The FDA had previously only approved some oral and topical medicines for the eradication of this condition. For many sufferers, topical medications help reduce some symptoms but they do not effectively work in getting rid of the infection. Oral medications, on the other hand, can take several months to even begin working. Treatments with lasers are now accepted and approved by the FDA to help with the problem.

Treatments that use lasers for fungal infections can help eradicate the cells in less time than the oral medications. The lasers that are used will involve the energy from light in either a pulse or varying wavelengths. Light energy is directed to the affected toe or toes, and the fungal cells are killed by the heat they absorb. It is a painless procedure and no damage to the surrounding tissue occurs.

Laser treatment of toenail fungus is generally performed in a podiatrist's office. Multiple sessions are usually required. Each session lasts about twenty to thirty minutes. It is often recommended to undergo at least three sessions, although some infections may need more treatments, particularly if the infection has not shown any results from the first few sessions.

If you are concerned about the cost, it is important to contact your insurance provider before you decide to start this procedure. Some insurance companies consider the procedure as cosmetic and will not cover the costs, leaving you to pay for the whole thing. Other insurance companies may cover the procedure, but only a partial amount.

So far, there are not any known side effects. This makes it an ideal choice for sufferers of various ages. People who have other medical conditions may not be able to take oral medications, but this procedure is considered safe for them. Normal activity can be resumed immediately following a session. There is not a waiting period to wear shoes normally or get a pedicure.

Although ongoing research is still needed because of how new the procedure is, laser treatment for toenail fungus shows promise for people who struggle with stubborn and recurring fungal infections. The idea is to provide additional treatment options that do not rely on chemical medications. It is important to discuss all your options with your doctor before you make a decision.




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