To find out if a patient has nail fungus, a dermatologist examines your nails and nearby skin. It's important to check the skin because the fungus can spread. You may already have a skin infection caused by fungus like athlete's foot. To get rid of the infection, you will need to treat all infected areas.
Do Dermatologists treat toenail problems?
Board-certified dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating the skin, hair, and nails. They have the expertise to tell you whether the change is harmless or requires medical testing.
What do dermatologists prescribe for toenail fungus?
Your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal drug. Studies show the most effective treatments are terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part. You typically take this type of drug for six to 12 weeks.
Do Dermatologists treat fungal infections?
Dermatologists treat fungal infections of the skin, as well as fungal infections in hair and nails. Often, these infections appear as itchy, scaley, rashes on the skin.
When should you see a doctor for toenail fungus?
Fungal nail infections can get worse over time. See your doctor if you notice your nail has turned brown or black, if it suddenly hurts, or if it pulls away from the nail bed.Nov 12, 2020
Is it too late to fix toenail fungus?
It's Never Too Lake to Clear Up Your Fungal Nails! If you're currently suffering from fungal toenails—regardless of how long you've had them, or how many times you've tried to treat them, or what time of year it is—there's something you must know: It's never too late.
Is it better to see a podiatrist or dermatologist for toenail fungus?
The truth is that you can go to either a dermatologist or a podiatrist to have your nail fungus treated, but it is especially important to see a podiatrist when it affects your toenails specifically.
How long can you have toenail fungus for?
What is the outcome for someone who has nail fungus? With treatment, many people can get rid of nail fungus. Even when the fungus clears, your nail(s) may look unhealthy until the infected nail grows out. A fingernail grows out in 4 to 6 months and a toenail in 12 to 18 months.
What kills toenail fungus the fastest?
The fastest way to eliminate the infection is through toenail laser treatment. Laser nail therapy specifically targets the microorganisms under your nail while leaving the keratin intact. In just a few treatments, the infection can be entirely eliminated.
What is the most effective treatment for toenail fungus?
Oral antifungal drugs. These drugs are often the first choice because they clear the infection more quickly than do topical drugs. Options include terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox). These drugs help a new nail grow free of infection, slowly replacing the infected part.Jul 14, 2020
Will soaking your feet in apple cider vinegar kill toenail fungus?
For mild forms of this condition, a vinegar soak might work well. The antifungal properties also make vinegar soaks a good idea for people who have toenail fungus. Soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes daily in a vinegar bath until the infection subsides. You can increase the length of time in the soak gradually.