Dr. Auger Treats Toenail Fungus

Nail fungus can be embarrassing. It can even be painful. With the nice weather coming up soon, sandals and other open-toed shoes are going to make an appearance from the backs of our closets. If you have nail fungus, unfortunately, you may feel uncomfortable wearing sandals. Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM wants her patients to understand what nail fungus is, how it comes about, and how to avoid it. Dr. Auger treats patients with toenail fungus in her West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT offices.

Nail fungus is a condition that can range in severity. It is often characterized by thickened, yellow nails. The nails may also become misshapen, brittle, ragged, and they can lose their shine. In some cases, a dark color may be present underneath the nail. Nail fungus may also emit an unpleasant smell. In severe cases, the nail will separate from the nail bed.

Dermatophyte fungus, yeasts, and molds are often responsible for toenail fungus. Fungus is often picked up from warm, moist environments like showers. Shoes are also good spots for fungi to grow since they usually do not need sunlight to thrive. Shoes are also often warm and moist from sweating feet.

There are many different types of treatment for toenail fungus; depending on your condition and health. There are oral antifungal medications, medicated nail polishes and creams, and nail removal. Toenails can take about a year to fully grow out; therefore, each type of medication will need to be used diligently to clear up the fungus. Full nail removal is often used in combination with a topical medication.

 In order to avoid toenail fungus, make sure to keep your feet clean and dry. Wear breathable shoes along with socks that absorb sweat well. If you wear boots or other non-breathable shoes every day for work, consider taking them off on breaks to give your shoes and your feet a chance to dry out. Antifungal powder works well inside of shoes to soak up moisture and avoid fungal growth. In addition, wear sandals when showering in public places or walking around public pools.

If you are having difficulty with toenail fungus, be sure to make an appointment with us. Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM treats toenail fungus in her West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT locations. To schedule an appointment, call us at (801) 619-2170. For more information, visit our website, www.slcpodiatrist.com.