Dealing with toenail fungus can be frustrating and uncomfortable. If you’re noticing changes in your toenails, you might be wondering, “What Kind Of Doctor Treats Toenail Fungus?” The answer is a dermatologist. These are skin, hair, and nail experts, making them the ideal medical professional to diagnose and treat nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis.
Dermatologists are specifically trained to identify and manage a wide range of nail conditions, including fungal infections. They possess the expertise to accurately diagnose the problem, ensuring it’s truly a fungal infection and not something else mimicking its symptoms. They also offer a comprehensive range of treatments tailored to the severity and type of your infection.
Diagnosing Toenail Fungus: The Dermatologist’s Approach
When you visit a dermatologist for a suspected toenail fungus infection, the first step is a thorough examination. The dermatologist will carefully inspect your toenails and the surrounding skin on your feet and toes. This is crucial because fungal infections can spread from the nails to the skin, leading to conditions like athlete’s foot. Treating all infected areas is essential for complete recovery and to prevent recurrence.
To confirm the diagnosis, dermatologists often take samples from the affected nail. This might involve:
- Collecting debris from under the nail: Fungal infections often accumulate debris beneath the nail plate.
- Nail trimming: Clipping a small portion of the infected nail allows for closer examination.
- Skin scraping: If the surrounding skin is also affected, a scraping may be taken.
These samples are then sent to a lab for microscopic examination or other tests to definitively identify the presence of fungus and rule out other conditions that may look similar. This precise diagnosis ensures you receive the most effective treatment for your specific condition.
Can You Wear Nail Polish During Treatment? Ask Your Dermatologist
If you are someone who uses nail polish, it’s important to discuss this with your dermatologist. While it might seem like a way to hide an infected nail, nail polish can sometimes trap moisture and potentially worsen the infection or interfere with topical treatments. Your dermatologist can provide personalized advice on whether it’s safe to wear nail polish during your treatment.
Alt text: A woman carefully applies clear nail polish to her toenails, highlighting the importance of consulting a dermatologist about nail polish use during toenail fungus treatment.
Toenail Fungus Treatment Options Prescribed by Dermatologists
Once a diagnosis of toenail fungus is confirmed, dermatologists offer a range of treatment options. The approach depends on the severity of the infection, the type of fungus, and your overall health. Treatment typically begins with debridement, where the dermatologist trims the infected nail, cutting it back as much as possible and scraping away debris underneath. This physically removes some of the fungal load and helps medications penetrate better.
Beyond debridement, common treatments include:
1. Topical Antifungal Medications:
For mild to moderate infections, dermatologists may prescribe topical antifungal medications that you apply directly to the nail. These medications work by preventing new fungal growth, allowing the healthy nail to grow out. Fingernails typically regrow in 4-6 months, while toenails, which grow slower, take 12-18 months.
Consistency is key with topical treatments. Some are applied daily, while others are used weekly. Following the dermatologist’s instructions precisely is crucial for success.
FDA-approved topical medications include:
- Amorolfine
- Ciclopirox
- Efinaconazole
- Tavaborole
Side effects are usually mild and may include redness, swelling, ingrown toenails, or stinging at the application site. However, these are generally well-tolerated and rarely cause patients to stop treatment.
2. Oral Antifungal Medications:
For more severe or persistent infections, dermatologists often prescribe oral antifungal pills. These medications are more effective than topical treatments as they work systemically, reaching the infection through the bloodstream.
Oral medications generally lead to faster results. Fingernail infections can often be cleared in about two months of oral medication, and toenail infections typically require three months.
However, oral antifungals can have potential side effects. Dermatologists carefully monitor patients on these medications, often requiring monthly blood tests to check liver function and for other potential issues.
FDA-approved systemic antifungal medications include:
- Fluconazole
- Griseofulvin
- Itraconazole
- Terbinafine
3. Combination Therapy:
In cases of stubborn toenail fungus, dermatologists may recommend combination therapy, using both oral and topical medications. Studies have shown this approach can be more effective than either treatment alone, especially for severe infections.
4. Nail Removal:
In rare cases of very severe infections or when other treatments fail, a dermatologist might recommend nail removal. This can be done either non-surgically using chemicals or surgically. Nail removal is performed in a medical office or clinic. While the nail can often grow back, if the infection persists, the nail bed can be treated to prevent regrowth.
5. Laser and Light Therapies:
Emerging treatments like laser and light therapies are showing promise for treating toenail fungus. While more research is still needed to confirm their long-term effectiveness and optimal protocols, dermatologists may offer these as alternative options in certain cases.
What to Expect and When to Seek Help
With appropriate treatment from a dermatologist, many people can successfully eliminate toenail fungus. It’s important to remember that even after the fungus is gone, the nail may still look unhealthy until the infected portion fully grows out. This process takes time, especially for toenails.
To maximize your chances of successful treatment:
- Follow your dermatologist’s instructions precisely.
- Complete the full course of medication, even if your nail starts to look better.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any issues.
Toenail fungus can be persistent, and recurrence is possible. However, by working with a dermatologist and following recommended preventative measures, you can significantly improve the health and appearance of your nails.
If you suspect you have toenail fungus, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist. They are the specialists best equipped to diagnose and treat this common condition, helping you achieve healthy, clear nails.
Image: Getty Images
Reference: Gold LFS and Rosen T. “Onychomycosis: Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies.” Dermatology News (A CME/CE certified supplement). March 2016:2-15.
