HyProCure


Dr. Michal Zemela, DPM

Podiatrist & Ankle and Foot Surgeon located in Wheeling, IL

Dr. Anthony Spitz, DPM

Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus can be a frustrating chronic problem for many men and women, and problems like black nails are more common than you may realize. Fungal nails are treatable, but you need the help of a highly skilled foot expert to truly get rid of the fungus. At Foot Clinic, Anthony Spitz, DPM, and the team of experienced podiatrists are ready to help. Use the online booking tool or call the office in Wheeling, Illinois, to schedule an appointment.


Toenail Fungus Q & A


What are fungal nails?

Fungal nails are nails with an infection. Usually, toenail fungus starts out as a white- or yellowish-colored spot beneath your toenail. 

The infection then spreads deeper, and as it does so your nail may start to look worse and worse. The most severe fungal infections can cause black nails. Other indicators of toenail fungus include:


  • Nail thickening or distortion
  • Pain while walking or wearing shoes
  • Peeling or crumbling nails
  • Nail discoloration
  • Foul odor coming from your nail
  • Redness and swelling


Toenail fungus usually affects just one nail at the start — most commonly, the big toe — and then often spreads to the other nails on your foot.

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to visit Foot Clinic. Left untreated, the infection will most likely grow and spread. 

What causes toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus comes from a fungal organism that invades your nail and causes infection. If you have weak, brittle, cracked, or split nails, you're more vulnerable to toenail fungus due to the easier entry point.

You may also be more vulnerable to fungal infections if you have a weakened immune system or a condition like peripheral neuropathy that causes poor circulation in your feet.

What are the treatments for toenail fungus?

There are several possible treatments for toenail fungus. For mild infections, daily cleansing of the nail along with a liquid antifungal medication can help. 

If over the counter drugs are not enough to treat the toenail, Dr. Spitz can prescribe topical antifungal creams or oral antifungal drugs may help cure nail fungus.

Foot Clinic also offers the most advanced technology for nail fungus treatment with laser therapy. During the treatment, the laser device sends a carefully controlled amount of laser energy into the affected area. Dr. Spitz can adjust the intensity of the treatment as you go based on your needs.

You may hear a slight popping noise and some mild heat during treatment, but the laser treatment is painless and completely safe. Usually, he treats all of your toenails in case the fungus has spread and isn't fully visible yet. This treatment is quick, easy, and highly effective.

In rare cases, when other treatments aren't effective, surgical removal of your toenail may be necessary.

Don't live with the misery of fungal nails any longer. Seek help from Foot Clinic using the online booking tool or calling the office today.

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