Nail Fungus and Skin Conditions

Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis):
When nails get attacked by a fungus they can become thickened, dark, yellow, and brittle. They may also separate form the nail bed. Nail fungus is NOT just a cosmetic problem. If left untreated, it can spread to other toes. This can cause pain when walking and ingrown toenails. It is most dangerous in diabetics and persons with impaired circulation. Some nail fungus can be treated with topical medications others require a short course of oral medication. Your doctor may do routine blood tests with this option.

Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis):
Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus. It can be itchy, red, and/or have scaling and swelling. It lives in a warm and humid environment. If over the counter anti-fungal medication and proper hygiene don’t heal your foot you will need the help of a podiatrist. Most fungal nail infections are preceded by an athlete’s foot infection.

Dry Cracked Skin, itchy feet (Xerosis &Dermatitis):
Dry, cracked, skin is NOT normal. It can be a sign of skin inflammation (dermatitis). Other conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can cause dry itchy skin. Most of these skin conditions are easily treated with topical agents. Dry skin is NOT just a cosmetic concern it can lead to skin infections by bacteria and fungus.

Plantar Warts (Verruca Plantaris):
Warts are thickened skin growths caused by a virus. Although most benign, they can be painful and may spread if untreated. Treatment options include topical and oral medications, laser treatments, freezing, and surgical removal of warts. Most warts respond to conservative treatment.

Sweaty Feet (Hyperhidrosis):
This is excessive perspiration from your feet. This problem may lead to foot odor and athlete’s foot. There are many treatments for this condition, most are topical and very successful.

Ingrown Toenails (Paronychia):
Ingrown toenails are usually caused by improper trimming of nails. They can be quite painful and can easily get infected and swollen. Your podiatrist will usually need to remove a small portion of the ingrown nail, and educate you on proper trimming.