Toenail fungal infection is also known as onychomycosis and is a situation in which nails of toes become thick, hard and have crumbling edges. In the initial stages, the infection may appear as spots that are small, white and spread gradually to affect the entire nail. One or more nails can be affected. Just like most other fungal infections, it is difficult to treat and occur over and over again. Laser treatment for toenail fungus is an option that is effective and removes the infection completely.
The models of lasers used are diverse. There is the Patholase for instance that does not yet have full approval of the FDA. Various studies have shown that it is not completely effective. There are several other models, others very effective and others waiting the approval of FDA. For the techniques that are effective, improvement is realized within 6 months. Lasers are concentrated light beams which vaporize tissues in the areas affected. Lasers of different wavelengths are chosen according to the area being treated.
The fungi are destroyed by being targeted to allow the nail and skin in surrounding areas not to be affected. The fungus is heated and then killed, with the tissues in the surrounding areas remaining unaffected. The various laser brands differ in the way they treat diseases. However, the main basis of their functioning is elimination of the fungi using heat.
Initial consultation involves evaluation of the nail, the symptoms and filling it down. The lasers get maneuvered over any nails that are affected and could even be used over those that are not infected. A single session would last about 30 minutes or even less. There are patients that will succeed with a single session. Others on the other hand will need multiple treatments.
Treatments do not clear a nail at once. 6 or 12 months may be required for the nails affected to grow out and thus determine if there was success. The costs to be incurred are normally a downside. Whereas the costs will differ from one provider to another, it averages at about $1000. One should take their time to make comparison of prices and plans of treatments. Using traditional techniques would cost less, just that they are not as effective. In addition, they will not require a single session as is the case of using lasers.
The feeling of pain during the procedure is not experienced by all patients. Some do not feel any pain. On the other hand, there are those who will feel a warm sensation or a pinprick. The infection may recur, which is why doctors recommend care techniques to minimize the chances of this occurring. The fungi are present everywhere, which is why the possibility of re-infection is always there.
As to whether one can have a pedicure or paint their nails, there is no problem with that. Application of polish can be done after treatment. The patient should however be informed to get rid of all polish and decorations on the day preceding their appointment with the doctor. This is mandatory.
Depending on the type of insurance cover that one went for, their laser treatment for toenail fungus may or may not be covered. In most situations however, the procedure is considered as aesthetic. As such, health insurance plans provide no coverage.
The models of lasers used are diverse. There is the Patholase for instance that does not yet have full approval of the FDA. Various studies have shown that it is not completely effective. There are several other models, others very effective and others waiting the approval of FDA. For the techniques that are effective, improvement is realized within 6 months. Lasers are concentrated light beams which vaporize tissues in the areas affected. Lasers of different wavelengths are chosen according to the area being treated.
The fungi are destroyed by being targeted to allow the nail and skin in surrounding areas not to be affected. The fungus is heated and then killed, with the tissues in the surrounding areas remaining unaffected. The various laser brands differ in the way they treat diseases. However, the main basis of their functioning is elimination of the fungi using heat.
Initial consultation involves evaluation of the nail, the symptoms and filling it down. The lasers get maneuvered over any nails that are affected and could even be used over those that are not infected. A single session would last about 30 minutes or even less. There are patients that will succeed with a single session. Others on the other hand will need multiple treatments.
Treatments do not clear a nail at once. 6 or 12 months may be required for the nails affected to grow out and thus determine if there was success. The costs to be incurred are normally a downside. Whereas the costs will differ from one provider to another, it averages at about $1000. One should take their time to make comparison of prices and plans of treatments. Using traditional techniques would cost less, just that they are not as effective. In addition, they will not require a single session as is the case of using lasers.
The feeling of pain during the procedure is not experienced by all patients. Some do not feel any pain. On the other hand, there are those who will feel a warm sensation or a pinprick. The infection may recur, which is why doctors recommend care techniques to minimize the chances of this occurring. The fungi are present everywhere, which is why the possibility of re-infection is always there.
As to whether one can have a pedicure or paint their nails, there is no problem with that. Application of polish can be done after treatment. The patient should however be informed to get rid of all polish and decorations on the day preceding their appointment with the doctor. This is mandatory.
Depending on the type of insurance cover that one went for, their laser treatment for toenail fungus may or may not be covered. In most situations however, the procedure is considered as aesthetic. As such, health insurance plans provide no coverage.
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When you are seeking laser treatment for toenail fungus, it is best that you refer to this foot clinic at www.footanklesf.com for all your needs. Start your sessions right now by visiting the site at http://www.footanklesf.com.
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