Sufferers Experience Amazing Results With Laser Treatment For Toenail Fungus

Fungal infection of the nails is called "onychomycosis" and it most often affects the toenails. Those who struggle with this unpleasant condition no longer have to be troubled with ineffective ointments and potentially unsafe medications with the recent availability of laser treatment for toenail fungus. This method has many advantages over other approaches and has been proven effective. This uncomfortable disorder is characterized by nails which become discolored, brittle, and eventually they may start to disintegrate and fall off. It can lead to considerable self-consciousness about the appearance of one's feet as well as discomfort. Risk factors which make someone susceptible to developing toenail fungus include aging, diabetes, family history of this problem, and continuously wearing footwear that hinders ventilation and provides a moist environment which encourages fungal growth. There are several models of lasers which are used to deliver this treatment that have been approved by the FDA, all of which must be tuned to a certain frequency and wavelength suitable for this purpose. The light beam is directed through the diseased nail into the underlying nail bed and plate, the site of the infection. Heat is produced and is then absorbed by the pigments in the cells of the organism, causing them to be destroyed. There have been no side effects noted from the use of this treatment, which is reassuring to patients since many oral medications prescribed for it do carry risks. Typically it is a painless procedure, if any slight discomfort is reported by the patient, this can be eliminated by adjusting the laser's settings. Anesthesia is not necessary and it is done as an out-patient procedure. Since most people live busy lives, the fact that this procedure is relatively quick is also appealing. A session usually lasts about ten minutes, or a bit longer if several toes are being treated. For some patients, a single session is sufficient, whereas others may require one or two more, the doctor will determine what is most appropriate. In patients who need to return for another treatment, this will usually be scheduled a month or two after the initial session. Three sessions is generally the most anyone will need, but it depends on the type of laser used and severity of the infection. While the results will vary from one patient to another, most will note a considerable improvement once therapy is concluded. New nail growth should occur within three months after the treatment. If the patient uses a doctor-prescribed anti-fungal cream which contains L-arginine and is careful to practice proper hygiene of the feet, the results will be even better. No pain is felt after the procedure and it will not place any restrictions on the patient's activities. The cost for laser treatment for toenail fungus can vary from one location to another and also depends on the particular case in terms of severity and the number of toes to be treated. Initial consultations are usually free. It is not covered under health insurance programs as a rule, but there are some companies which will provide other financing options to the patient.