Stop Foot and Toenail Fungus In Its Tracks

Commonly referred to as athlete’s foot, the term actually includes two conditions: fungal toenail infections and foot fungus. Because this week is Fungal Disease Awareness Week, Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC are sharing some tips for keeping foot and toenail fungus at bay. 

For most people, the peeling or cracking skin or the yellow, crumbly toenails that fungus causes are a painful, itchy irritation that can be an embarrassment in public. But for others, it’s a serious condition. 

For diabetics and those who are immune-compromised, it’s vital to address these issues because fungal infections can break down the skin and lead to conditions such as foot ulcers or cellulitis. 

Treatment of Fungal Infections

Because these infections won’t go away on their own, your podiatrist needs to identify exactly what is causing them. Right now, treatment options for fungal nail infections include topical and oral medications and laser therapy. 

Unfortunately, even if the condition clears up with treatment, fungal infections in the nails have a tendency to recur, especially in those individuals who are predisposed to the condition. 

If the infection is only located on the skin of your feet, an over-the-counter antifungal cream may be recommended. In some cases, creams are better than powders or sprays because the creams completely cover the foot and treat the entire skin surface. 

But be sure to put the cream between the toes, because most problems occur in those moist, warm areas. Lasers are also being used to successfully treat toenail fungus.

The danger of waiting to treat the fungus. 

Foot or toenail fungus is dangerous because it can extend to other parts of the body, such as the groin and hands. So if for some reason you can’t treat your toenails, at least use an antifungal cream on the surrounding area to keep it from spreading. 

If you’re experiencing any type of foot or nail fungus – don’t take any chances. Contact the offices of Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC today to schedule an appointment.

We serve both New Haven County and Fairfield County areas. Schedule an appointment by calling our Waterbury office at (203) 755-0489 or our Newtown location at (203) 270-6724.