It’s hard to believe the 2012 Summer Olympics are over, the school year has started in Jacksonville, FL and Football Season is upon us. Although fall is right around the corner, we are still feeling summer temperature’s here on the First Coast, leaving many still showing off their toes in flip-flops or sandals.  For some this can be embarrassing if you have thick, yellow, cracking, brittle nails, which can be painful and hard to treat, could be fungus.  Nail polish can disguise the discoloration, but regular polish can also lock in the fungus, making it worse. Summer is more fun if you're fungus free! Toenail fungus, called onychomycosis, can start as a yellowing of the toenail but progress into a painful, thick nail with a foul odor.  Fungus thrives in hot, humid environments, making it an extremely common condition in Florida.  This contagious infection can be spread easily in moist environments such as public swimming pools, and gyms and can be difficult to get rid of. It can be difficult to get rid of toenail fungus and recurrence is high, but a podiatristcan give you options that have the highest success with the particular kind of fungus you have:

• Topical nonprescription creams
• Oral Medications, which can have side effects
• Surgical removal of the nail
• Laser Therapy

First Coast Foot and Ankle Clinic makes sure to offer the most effective treatments available, from anti-fungal nail polish, to the most up-to date treatment tools. Currently the Pinpointe FootLaser is one of the most effective treatments for nail fungus.  The procedure is quick, painless and does not have to be repeated.  The laser is able to go through the nail and destroy the fungus under it while leaving all other tissue unharmed.  The laser offers effective treatment without the side effects and prolonged treatments of many of the medications currently used, and without the pain and recovery associated with surgical removal of the nail. The First Coast Foot and Ankle Clinics’ Four steps to Fabulous Fungus Free Feet:

1. Rid yourself of any current fungus: Let us PinPointe the problem for you!
2. Keep feet dry: Dry cotton socks and ventilated shoes are a good choice
3. Don’t share: Tools such as nail clippers or files, and clothing can spread fungus
4. Wear shoes in public facilities: showers, gyms and public pools

If you or someone you know may possibly be suffering from toenail fungus, request an appointment today to see what Dr. Vimal Reddy can do for you.