Learning About Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus

By Jayne Rutledge


Anyone who has ever had a fungal infection of one of their toenails knows how bothersome it can be. These infections can be very difficult to get rid of. Oral and topical medications previously were the only options, but the topical medications are not usually effective and oral medications take quite awhile to start working and come with the risk of unwanted side effects. To combat the problem and provide another option, the FDA has approved laser treatment for toenail fungus.

A fungal infection can come with many undesirable and unsightly symptoms. The nails can become brown or yellow, brittle, and thicker. It is common for the texture to change as well. Nails can gradually change shape, to a more pronounced curve, and become flaky on the edges. If the condition persists and worsens, the nail can separate from the bed as the nail continues to become more curved.

The FDA had previously only approved some oral and topical medicines for the eradication of this condition. For many sufferers, topical medications help reduce some symptoms but they do not effectively work in getting rid of the infection. Oral medications, on the other hand, can take several months to even begin working. Treatments with lasers are now accepted and approved by the FDA to help with the problem.

This method uses pulses of light energy. The device is used to target the affected nail and heat the area. Fungal cells absorb this heat, resulting in death. It also targets the nail bed, killing any cells hiding under the nail. The procedure is usually painless, and surrounding tissue is not damaged.

A laser treatment of toenail fungus is not considered a surgical procedure and is safely performed in your doctor's office. More than one session will be required. Many patients see results within three sessions, but some instances may require more. One session usually lasts about twenty minutes, or it could be as long as thirty minutes.

If you are concerned about the cost, it is important to contact your insurance provider before you decide to start this procedure. Some insurance companies consider the procedure as cosmetic and will not cover the costs, leaving you to pay for the whole thing. Other insurance companies may cover the procedure, but only a partial amount.

Currently, there have not been any side effects reported. There are not any restrictions based on age or health. Following the sessions, normal activities can be resumed, including using nail polish and wearing shoes. Due to the lack of side effects, it is a recommended procedure for people who cannot use the oral or topical medications.

Laser treatment for toenail fungus is becoming a popular way to get rid of the problem. It is not an invasive procedure and does not come with a risk of unwanted side effects or dangerous interactions. You should talk with your doctor about all of your options and which one he or she thinks would be the best for your situation.




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