What Is Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is so widely prevalent that one in every 10 Americans, which is about 23 million people, suffers from it. The agent responsible for nail fungal infections is usually a member of the group of fungi called dermatophytes. However, the toenail fungus may also be caused by yeasts and molds. They may enter a person's skin through microscopic invisible cuts or via a small space that exists between your nail and nail bed. Toenails are usually kept dark, warm and moist inside person's shoes, which is the ideal environment for the fungi to thrive in. This is the reason why these infections usually occur in the toenails rather than the fingernails.
When an infection attacks one or more of your toenails, it usually starts out as a white or yellow dot beneath the tip of ones toenail. As it progresses and extends deeper into the affected nail, the toenail begins to discolor, thicken and develop crumbling edges. This is not only unpleasant to witness; it could also turn very painful. Toenail fungus infections are difficult to treat and are known to recur. While there are many toenail fungus home remedies and medications, most are said to be only partially or temporarily effective. For this reason, toenail fungus laser treatment is a breakthrough that may be an effective lasting toenail fungus cure.
If you're like many people, when you look at your toenails, you may shrink back in horror. Having ugly, discolored, misshapen toenails is not uncommon. People of all ages can have fungal toenails or "ugly nail syndrome". Fungal toenails can be caused by heavy foot perspiration, poor shoe/sock ventilation, or walking barefoot in damp areas such as a gym or locker room. Fungi love dark, damp places! What happens when you do not want to take an oral medication, apply a topical, or have the nail surgically removed? Another option is laser treatment. Connecticut Foot Care Centers is one of the few podiatry practices in the state that offers laser treatments for fungal toenails.
Laser Treatment With Noveon NailLaser
The Noveon NailLaser is able to kill fungus using light wavelengths that are known to disrupt the metabolism of the fungal cells. Once their metabolism has been thrown off, fungal cells die.
- An effective treatment option for toenail fungus.
- A treatment session typically lasts less the 30 minutes.
- No recovery period..
- No side effects.
Hundreds of laboratory experiments and rigorous human clinical trials have shown that Noveon Podiatric Laser works without negative side effects.
The Noveon Podiatric Laser does not depend on the skill of the operator to obtain the best treatment results.
- Instead of a handheld laser wand, the Noveon uses special "patient guards" to ensure correct aiming.
- A sophisticated pre-programmed algorithm automatically delivers optimal treatment.
The Noveon Podiatric Laser is approved by the FDA for treating podiatric and dermatological conditions. Automatic operation reduces laser exposure risk for the patient and physician. The Noveon Podiatric Laser uses dual laser frequencies selected to reduce or eliminate the pain that can accompany other laser treatments.
Developed by laser experts, the Noveon Podiatric Laser is a laser medical device manufactured by an ISO 13485 certified supplier.
- Developed in consultation with a panel of 14 dermatologists and podiatrists.
- Designed by a Boston engineering firm with a track record of successful medical devices.
- Built by FDA-certified USA-based manufacturers.
In 2009, the Noveon Podiatric Laser won the prestigious Frost and Sullivan award.
Here's what happy patients have to say about the laser treatment:
I am 5 1/2 months post laser treatment for my fungal toenails and I couldn't be happier. My big toe was cracked and several of my toenails were greatly infected with the fungus. For 10 years I had suffered with ugly fungal toenails with no result from over the counter treatments. I had even tried a tea bag and super glue remedy I heard about from my coworkers. I was concerned about taking the oral medication and when Dr. Kahn suggested the laser treatment, it sounded like the perfect thing for me. I had the treatment done in the Rocky Hill office. The treatment was not painful during or after the treatment. I had to wear protective glasses.
I have seen a dramatic change in my nails since the treatment. The treatment besides the laser is a three step process and it is crucial that you follow through: clean the tub, spray your shoes and apply the topical medication. I can see the new clear nail growing. It is important to know however that it does take time for your nail to grow out and see improvement- it does not happen immediately. For the first time in many years I am able to wear sandals!
Margaret N.