Nail Fungus Specialist
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Flower Mound Foot and Ankle Center
Tommie T. Harris, DPM
Foot and Ankle Surgeon & Podiatrist located in Flower Mound & Lewisville, TX
Toenail fungus can quickly spread to all of your toenails and, in some cases, even your fingernails. Before your case of nail fungus worsens, get it treated with the help of leading board-certified podiatrist Tommie Harris, DPM, at Flower Mound Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Harris and his Flower Mound, Texas-based podiatry team provide some of the most effective nail fungus solutions available. To book your nail fungus evaluation, click on the online scheduling feature or call the clinic.
Nail Fungus
What causes nail fungus?
A strain of fungi cause nail fungus infections, and these infections are known for leading to severe nail discoloration and brittleness. Common risk factors and issues that lead to nail fungus include:
- Being older
- Sweating heavily
- History of athlete’s foot
- Diabetes or poor circulation
You can become infected with a nail fungus strain by walking barefoot in damp communal areas, like a gym locker room or pool deck.
What are the symptoms of nail fungus?
Fungal infections target the tissues underneath your nail first, so it could take some time for signs and symptoms to fully emerge. Initially, you might notice some white spots on your nails. As the fungal infection worsens, you may experience:
- Nail thickening
- Yellow-to-brown discoloration
- Brittle or crumbly nails
- Foul odor
- Distorted nail shape
Plus, since debris can easily build up under your fragile nail, you might notice dark spots in your nail where you have weak spots.
How is nail fungus treated?
Dr. Harris carefully evaluates your nails and may even take a nail sample to help identify which type of fungus is causing your infection. In about 75% of nail fungus cases, men and women only need clinical-grade topical medications to treat a nail fungus infection. You may also need oral antifungal medications, or medicated nail polish for optimal improvement.
If the fungal infection has deeply impacted your nail bed and your nail has started to pull away from your skin, Dr. Harris could need to surgically remove the affected part of your nail. This allows him to apply the antifungal medication directly to the sensitive tissue right underneath your nail.
In rare cases, medications don’t help resolve fungal nail infections. If this is the case, or if your fungal infection continues coming back, Dr. Harris may suggest permanent nail removal. This in-office procedure involves numbing your toe thoroughly, gently removing your nail, and treating the underlying tissue — often with a medical laser — to prevent regrowth.
You can get started on a lasting nail fungus treatment at Flower Mound Foot and Ankle Center right away. Schedule your visit either online or over the phone.
