Toenails often serve as barometers of our health; they are diagnostic tools providing the initial signal of the presence or onset of systemic diseases.
Toenails often serve as barometers of our health; they are diagnostic tools providing the initial signal of the presence or onset of systemic diseases. For example, the pitting of nails and increased nail thickness can be manifestations of psoriasis. Concavity—nails that are rounded inward instead of outward—can foretell iron deficiency anemia. Some nail problems can be conservatively treated with topical or oral medications while others require partial or total removal of the nail. Any discoloration or infection on or about the nail should be evaluated by a podiatric physician.
Ingrown toenails- need to be treated right away, chemical matrixectomies are done in office and you can wear shoes the next day. The majority of patients do well with this procedure, a small percentage need to have surgical excisional matrixectomies. With these procedures, the recurrence rate is very minimal.
Fungal toenails- toenails can be treated with topical solutions or oral medications. On your initial evaluation, we will discuss with you which treatment best suits your health. Make sure you bring a list of your medications on your visit. A blood test is always done before treatment. Just keep in mind that there is no miracle drug for the treatment of fungal nails. Usually, a combination of oral and topical treatment will cure the infection.
