What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus develops when fungal organisms enter through small cracks in the nail or skin. Once inside, they can spread from one nail to another and may even infect the surrounding skin.

Common Causes

• Walking barefoot in public showers, locker rooms, or pool areas
• Wearing tight or poorly ventilated shoes
• Excessive sweating
• Nail injuries or trauma
• Poor foot hygiene
• Existing fungal skin infections 

Risk Factors

You may be at greater risk for developing toenail fungus if you:

• Are over the age of 60 due to slower nail growth and decreased immune response 
• People living with diabetes
• Have poor blood circulation
• Have a weakened immune system

Toenail Fungus Treatment Options

Depending on your podiatrist’s assessment and result of your nail sample, treatment options may include:

Topical Antifungal Medications

Topical medications are typically the most affordable option and may be effective for mild infections. However, they generally have lower success rates (5% effectiveness) for long-standing or more advanced cases. Many patients have already tried topical treatments before seeking professional care.

Oral Antifungal Medications

Oral antifungal medication is one of the most effective treatments for toenail fungus (50% effectiveness) because it targets the infection from within. However, periodic liver function monitoring may be recommended during treatment.

Laser Toenail Fungus Treatment

Laser therapy targets fungal organisms beneath the nail without damaging surrounding tissue (60% effectiveness) and may be recommended for appropriate candidates. It is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Check out this video to learn more about this option: Laser Treatment For Fungal Toenails

Nail Resurfacing 

Nail resurfacing involves reducing or thinning thick, damaged, or diseased nail tissue. This can improve the appearance of the nail, reduce discomfort, and help antifungal treatments reach the infected area more effectively. It is commonly used alongside other treatment methods rather than as a standalone solution.

Clear Nail Eradication Program

Depending on your specific case, your podiatrist may recommend a comprehensive treatment program that combines:

• Lunula Laser treatment
• Regular nail monitoring
• Oral medication when needed

Monitoring and Prevention

We provide guidance on preventing recurrence and maintaining long-term nail health after treatment. The Fungal Prevention Kit is recommended for all patients, including Thera-Nail, Ultraviolet light, and antifungal shoe spray.

Patient Expectation

Treatment can significantly improve the appearance and health of fungal nails, but results vary and nails may not always return to a completely normal appearance. Additionally, fifth (small) toenails are often naturally thicker due to friction from footwear and may be more resistant to treatment, even when the fungal infection has been successfully cleared.