What is Onychomycosis?
Onychomycosis is a condition that is caused by a fungal infection under the nail. The fungus feeds on keratin, which is the type of protein that makes up the hard surface of the nail. This fungus can be very difficult to treat. This condition is estimated to affect more than 10% of the United States population and is an embarrassing chronic condition. This condition can cause pain and toenail disfigurement, and for some people, it can affect quality of life. The affected nail becomes dark in color, thickens and becomes brittle. This can lead to pain with wearing shoes or with walking.
How is Onychomycosis treated?
Historically, treatments have been overall ineffective. As the fungus infection is underneath and inside the nail, treating the fungus directly is very challenging. Topical creams tend to be ineffective, and oral medications can cause unwanted side effects. The nail can be surgically removed, but this is painful, and it takes quite some time for the nail to regrow. More recently, laser and plasma therapy have become available. Using more advanced techniques, it is possible to penetrate the nail bed and target the fungus responsible for the infection, eradicating the fungal infection. The nail and the surrounding tissue are left perfectly intact and healthy. At Wildflower MediSpa, we use the most advanced treatment available in the form of plasma energy to treat and eradicate the fungus within the nail.