Fungal nail can be a problem for anyone, but for an individual with diabetes it can be the start of serious complications.

Onychomycosis, or toenail fungus, penetrates the nail bed which makes it hard to eliminate. Your toenails get brittle and easily break. If they break into sharp points they can damage nearby tissue and skin and allow bacteria in.

A person with diabetes often has nerve damage, or neuropathy, which causes loss of sensation especially in the feet. The patient may not feel any cuts or scrapes caused by the brittle and infected nails, and so these small cuts may deteriorate further into ulcers.

Even though a small part of your body, your toenails are important and protect your toes from injury. It’s important to keep them healthy and free of fungal infections.

Our New Nail Laser Center Technology Can Help

If you suspect that you have a fungal infection, especially if you have diabetes, please contact Your Next Step right away. Over-the-counter topical products won’t kill the fungus completely. The toenail fungus laser treatment available at our New Nail Laser Center targets and kills the fungus. For most patients, in just one short, painless session, the fungus will be gone with no damage to healthy skin or tissue.

Good Nail Care Can Prevent Toenail Fungus

If you have diabetes, make good foot and toenail care part of your daily routine:

• Check your feet and toenails every day. Look for cuts, bruises and any unusual skin conditions. Toenails should be pink, smooth and curved.
• Wash your toes and feet in soapy water and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Protect your feet by always wearing socks and shoes. At public pools, spas and gyms, wear flip flops to avoid picking up a fungus.
• Wear sturdy shoes that are comfortable and fit well. Choose synthetic socks that wick moisture away from your skin. Cotton socks trap moisture next to the skin.
• When trimming your toenails, make sure your tools are sterilized with alcohol every time.
• Don’t wear artificial fingernails that encourage the growth of nail fungus by trapping water.

Any change in the condition of your feet, toenails or skin should be reported to us immediately. In addition to problems like toenail fungus, toenails can also act as indicators of systemic problems including anemia, lung disease, cancer and infection.

Get Help in Eliminating Toenail Fungus

Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, board certified or qualified podiatrists have extensive experience in healing toenail fungus, especially in patients with diabetes. Please call us for an appointment today for any foot or ankle pain or problems. You’ll find contact information at the website for our Ardmore, Paoli and Downingtown offices. Don’t delay in taking care of your fungal nail before it escalates into further complications.