laser-toenail-fungus-treatments-arizona-phoenix
How Laser Toenail Treatment Works
Laser
toenail fungus treatment works by destroying the toe fungus
in a nail and below the nail. The laser utilizes specific
wavelengths to target the toe fungus. Laser treatment is painless,
safe, and effective because the wavelengths used do no harm
human cells. Patient can expect to see noticeable results
within a few months when the clearer healthy nail grows out.
Laser treatments help with the pain associated with nail fungus,
and the relief may be immediate. It provides temporary increase
in local blood circulation, temporary relief of minor muscle
and joint aches, pains, and stiffness; relaxation of muscles
spasms, minor pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.
Effects of Laser Treatment on Toenail Fungus
Fungal infections live in the pores and cracks of toenails.
Nails are dead cells cannot fight the fungal infection. Laser
treatment destroys the fungus but is not always a cure by
itself. Toenail fungus can return without lifestyle changes
including new socks, shoes, and reducing the chances of acquiring
an infection. Laser toenail treatment is often combined with
topical medication, lifestyle changes, or oral medication.
Different studies have shown laser treatment effective between
60 to 70% for increasing clarity of nails.
Costs of Treating Toenail Fungus with Laser
The number of treatment required depends on the severity of
infection, number of toenails affected, general health of
a patient, and lifestyle. Treatment numbers vary but most
are within three visits. We treat all 10 nails during a laser
treatment, not just the infected toenails. Laser treatments
are not covered by health insurance or Medicare, the costs
of HSA plans may cover the treatment.
Restrictions and Side Effects of Laser Treatment
Some medications for toenail fungus have been known to cause
kidney or liver issues. However laser treatments for toenail
fungus have not shown any major contraindications, side effects,
were negative reactions during treatment. There are not any
age or health restrictions.
What
is Onychomycosis?
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail bed
and nail. Mild cases can produce a slight discoloration of
a nail or can become more severe producing thickened, brittle,
discolored, and crumbling nail.
Other Treatments for Toenail Fungal Infections
Oral medications require blood work because of liver toxicity
and may take months to work with a 50-50% improvement. Topical
treatments alone have lower success rates and high relapse
rates. Surgical treatments include removing the nail and ablation
of the nail bed.
Additional information on Lasers Treating Toenail Fungus
Lasers
to Treat Toenail Fungus - WSJ.com
New
laser treatment takes aim at toenail fungus - The Washington
Post
Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment - YouTube
Dr. Matthew Neuhaus of Neuhaus Foot & Ankle