Toenail fungus is a common and uncomfortable problem. Your podiatrist can help you get rid of toenail fungus permanently. Dr. Tatiana Wellens and Dr. Maria Jaramillo-Dolan at Central Florida Foot And Ankle Center offer comprehensive foot and ankle services, including diagnosis and treatment of toenail fungus. They have three convenient office locations in Winter Haven, Davenport, and Lakeland, FL, to help you.

What You Need to Know About Toenail Fungus

The fungus that causes toenail fungus thrives in moist, warm places like public pools, locker rooms, showers, and gym facilities. It spreads when your feet come into direct contact with it. It starts as a small white or yellow spot beneath your toenail. The spot grows larger as the fungus spreads further underneath your toenail.

As the fungus grows, your toenails change. You see that your toenail is:

• Growing thicker
• Becoming brittle and crumbly
• Growing distorted
• Growing darker and yellower in color
• Separating from the nail bed

You may also begin to feel pain in your toe and notice a foul odor coming from the area.

Your podiatrist can help you get rid of toenail fungus permanently, with several effective treatments. Your podiatrist may recommend:

• Laser or light therapy to destroy the fungus and keep it from coming back
• Prescription-strength oral or topical anti-fungal medication to eliminate fungal growth
• Prescription-strength medicated nail cream to eliminate the fungus
• Surgically removing the infected nail so a healthy new toenail can grow

Toenail fungus occurs from direct skin contact with the fungus, so you can do a lot to prevent toenail fungus. Remember to:

• Avoid going barefoot in public areas
• Wear flip-flops in public showers
• Avoid sharing linens, socks, or shoes with others

Want To Know More About Toenail Fungus and Toenail Fungus Treatment?

To find out about how toenail fungus spreads and how you can prevent it, call Dr. Tatiana Wellens and Dr. Maria Jaramillo-Dolan at Central Florida Foot And Ankle Center. You can reach them in any of their offices in Winter Haven, Davenport, and Lakeland, FL, by calling (863) 299-4551, so call today.