Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails, the most common nail impairment, are nails whose corners or sides dig painfully into the soft tissue of nail grooves, often leading to irritation, redness, and swelling. Also known as onychocryptosis, ingrown toenails are usually caused by trimming toenails too short, particularly on the sides of the big toes. They may also be caused by shoe pressure (from shoes that are too tight or short), injury, fungus infection, heredity, or poor foot structure. Ingrown toenails start out hard, swollen, and tender. Left untreated, they may become sore, red, and infected and the skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail. Treatments include antibiotic medications and disinfectant soaks; however, it is essential to remove the nail edge that’s causing the problem. Dr. Luvish is trained and equipped to treat the problem with little to no discomfort.
Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an infection underneath the surface of the nail caused by fungi. The disease is characterized by a progressive change in a toenail’s quality and color. Depending on the type of infection you have, Dr. Luvish may recommend treatment options ranging from over-the-counter liquid antifungal agents, to prescription strength topical or oral medication, to removal of the diseased nail matter and debris, a process called debridement.