Fungal infections of the toenails, for which the technical name is onychomycosis, occur when fungi infect the nails and they become thick and hard. Such infections also cause the edges of each nail to crumble, resulting in painful, tender skin. Laser treatment for toenail fungus is a new therapy developed to eradicate this uncomfortable and embarrassing condition.

The aforementioned infection may first manifest as tiny white spots that gradually begin to spread. Eventually, the entire nail is affected. The fungus may be present in only one nail, or multiple toenails can be infected. Such infections are often challenging to treat, and in many cases it appears that they have cleared up, but they recur in the future. As mentioned above, laser therapy is a new approach to such infections, and many patients have enjoyed success when such therapy was pursued.

Fungi are microscopic organisms that thrive in dark, warm, moist surroundings. For this reason, many people contract such infections near public swimming pools or showers that they share with other individuals. The fungi responsible for causing the infection is called a dermatophyte. The latter enter the toenail through tiny openings where the nail separates from its bed.

Toenail fungus is more prevalent in men than women, although the reason for this is not yet known. Such infections are also more common among elderly individuals than younger men and women. Again, scientist are not quite sure of the reason for these statistics.

Currently, there are 2 types of laser treatment available for fungus of the toenails. One is called patholase, but this kind has not yet been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration. This is because preliminary studies do not support the fact that it is effective in treating the aforementioned infection.

Nomir laser therapy is another option for those suffering from the aforementioned condition. Although this treatment is also awaiting FDA approval, studies are overwhelmingly positive with regard to its success rate. In preliminary clinical trials, 85 percent of participants had an improvement in their condition within six months of completing the treatment. Additional studies are underway concerning this type of therapy.

The term laser refers to a light beam that can be concentrated and directed precisely to the area where the tissue is affected. After several treatments, the infected tissues vaporize. Numerous wavelengths are utilized to treat each region selectively, based on how much fungi growth is present. The heat coming from the beam of light kills the fungus, but does not result in any damage to the surrounding tissue. Additionally, there are essentially no side effects linked to such therapy.

The process takes approximately 30 minutes and can be performed in a physician's office. It usually takes three visits in order to administer enough wavelengths to destroy the infection. Anesthesia is not necessary, as the patient typically feels nothing when the procedure is being performed.

Laser treatment for toenail fungus can be performed on essentially anyone. No incidences of adverse reactions have yet been reported, and both nail polish and footwear can be worn immediately following the therapy. Anyone who is interested in this procedure should schedule an appointment with his or her primary health care practitioner for an evaluation and advice.