Nail infection
Nail infections are becoming more and more common, especially in nail salons. There is in increase in the number of fungal infections that occur from unsanitary use of implements. It can be an embarrassing topic for many and especially hard to feel confident in wearing shoes that expose the toes. A nail infection is a persistent fungal infection of the nail plate. The infection can cause the nails to become yellow and advanced infections can create thickening of the nail plate or brittle nails plates that separate from the nail bed causing loss of nail, it can also cause discomfort and in some cases pain from wearing shoes and walking.
What are some of the symptoms?
One or more symptoms may indicate a fungal infection a thickening of the nail, discoloration of the nail, yellow or white streaks on the nail plate, brittle or ragged nails and separation of the nail plate from the nail bed.
How can you contract a fungal infection?
Fungal infections are caused by contact with infected fungal agents. These can be present everywhere in our environment but here are some common places where it is most likely to be contracted. Swimming pools, nail salons or spas, public showers and the gym.
What are the treatment options?
There are several options today to treat this issue, such as topical drugs, oral antifungal medication, and or home remedies. Topical drugs are applied to the nail several times a day for up to 12 months. Often these treatments have a hard time reaching the site of infection which is deeply rooted. Oral medications can be effective but usually require up to 12 months of treatments. Keep in mind this oral medication comes with risk of damage to the liver. We provide a safe and effective treatment at the clinic called ClearSteps.
What is ClearSteps?
It is a safe and effective procedure that treats fungal infections; it is a non-invasive laser procedure treating the affected area at the root. Treatments are quick and safe. The treatment involves passes over the infected area and surrounding tissue with the laser, this creates thermal heating that weakens and destroys the fungal infection.
Expected results
Improved results can be noticed after a Clearstep session but best results are achieved with 3-4 sessions. A successful treatment will stimulate healthy new nail growth but keep in mind this healthy growth can take up to a year to see an entire clear nail.