The weather in Cincinnati can certainly be unpredictable, but with spring temperatures inching back up into the 60s and beyond with more regularity, many people are itching to break out the sandals. (We prefer you wear a pair with good support instead of flip flops, but that’s a topic for another day.)
On the flipside, those who may have picked up a case of fungal toenails, whether recently or long ago, might be approaching the upcoming summer with some dread. Toenail fungus usually doesn’t pose much medical risk, but there’s no question it can be embarrassing, and if you want to get rid of it for good you really shouldn’t keep dragging your feet. Although it’s treatable, even curable, toenail fungus is a stubborn infection, and even after it’s been eliminated it may take several months for the disfigured portion of the nail to fully grow out and away.
You might be tempted to go it alone at first, hoping it will get better on its own or using topical antifungal creams. While these approaches generally won’t hurt, unfortunately they almost certainly won’t be effective, either—at least not on their own. The creams can’t penetrate the nail to get where the fungi live, and they can remain happy and fed for years—even decades—undisturbed.
The best strategy is to let us help you take the offensive as early as possible. An oral antifungal regimen over a period of about 6 weeks is usually the best strategy and eliminates the infection in most cases; after that, it’s a matter of waiting for new, healthy nail to replace the damaged portion. Again, this can take some time, so if you want your nails looking nice again before next winter rolls around, you really can’t delay.
Don’t let embarrassing toenail fungus stress you out. Visit Family Foot & Ankle Center for professional care. Our experienced podiatry team will be happy to help! To schedule an appointment at one of our six offices, located in and around Cincinnati, please fill out our online form or dial 888-689-3317.
