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Fungal Nails

Neuhaus Foot & Ankle

Podiatrists Specializing in Foot and Ankle Pain and Injuries Located in Nashville and across Middle Tennessee

If your nails are yellowing, becoming brittle, or starting to become misshapen, you might have a fungal nail infection. With over 50 years of combined experience, the podiatrists at Neuhaus Foot & Ankle are dedicated to restoring your healthier, stronger, clearer nails. Before your nail fungus infection worsens, schedule an evaluation at the Hermitage, Brentwood, Nashville, Mount Juliet, Waverly, Smyrna, Gallatin, Shelbyville, Goodlettsville, Clarksville or Lebanon, Tennessee, clinic. Book online or over the phone.

Fungal Nails Q&A

What causes fungal nails?

Medically known as onychomycosis, fungal nails are an infection that develops under the surface of your nail bed. Fungi thrive in warm, dark, moist environments. Your chances of developing fungal nails increases if you:

 

  • Walk barefoot in a damp communal area, like a gym locker room
  • Have poor circulation, possibly from diabetes
  • Have a history of fungal nails or athlete’s foot

 

The fungal organisms can quickly multiply, causing one or more of your toenails to thicken, chip away, darken or become yellow, or even start producing a foul odor. Without proper treatment, your fungal nail infection can become so severe comfortably wearing shoes becomes increasingly difficult.

How are fungal nails treated?

Because the fungi that cause fungal nail infections can be stubborn, it’s best to have your infection treated by a podiatrist. The team at Neuhaus Foot & Ankle may use any of the following solutions to stop the fungal infection and promote healthy nail growth.

 

  • Oral antifungal drugs
  • Topical antifungal creams
  • Medicated nail polish

 

In severe cases, it’s sometimes best to remove your affected nails through an in-office surgery. This type of procedure allows your podiatrist to treat underlying skin tissue directly, which is often most helpful for fungal infections that don’t respond to conservative therapies. Over time, a healthy nail grows back.

Can I prevent fungal nails?

It’s impossible to prevent every case of fungal nails, but with a few simple lifestyle changes and counseling from the team at Neuhaus Foot & Ankle, you can certainly dramatically reduce your risk. Preventing fungal nails involves:

 

  • Keeping your feet clean and dry
  • Wearing breathable socks and shoes
  • Avoiding sharing socks and shoes
  • Disinfecting your pedicure tools and nail clippers
  • Wearing shoes or flip-flops in communal areas Click for more information on Fungal Nails

 

Your dedicated podiatrist at Neuhaus Foot & Ankle spends time with you trying to determine why you have fungal nails, so you can work together to prevent future issues and keep your toenails healthy and strong.

Book your fungal nails evaluation and get started on treatment at Neuhaus Foot & Ankle today. Click on the online scheduler or call any of the office locations directly.

Fax: (615) 220-8688