Onychomycosis, more commonly known as nail fungus, is an infection caused by three different types of fungi (dermatophytes (trichophyton and microsporum), yeast (candida albicans) or non-dermatophyte molds.
How do I know if I have a fungal infection?
Knowing if you have a fungal nail infection is simple, as it is easily noticed by the coloration of the nail. The nail is cracked and has an unpleasant odor due to the moisture from the debris it accumulates. In addition, the texture of the nail changes and spots or longitudinal stripes appear. Also, the fungus does not hurt, so it is never given enough importance.
What treatments eliminate fungus?
Conventional topical treatments usually solve many cases of deonicomycosis, however, in many cases, either because of the lack of consistency of the treatment or because the fungus does not reach a depth where it can not reach, and it is recommended to use oral products because they are hepatotoxic.
Another recommended treatment is the laser, as it is fast, effective and with a few sessions the fungus is eliminated. The Institut de Podología Daniel Mayral has two lasers, the S30 Podylas 1064 and the Diode Laser 980nm.
How does the laser work?
The laser applies a beam of light to eliminate the fungus by heat. This treatment consists of denaturing the proteins necessary for the fungus to live. The energy of the laser light pulses penetrates through the nail and raises the temperature of the microorganisms, eliminating even the deepest fungi without damaging the surrounding tissues.
The treatment is safe and fast. About 400 J of energy is applied for the nails of the big toe and 200 J for other toes. In addition, no post-session care is required, just general hygiene guidelines. It must be taken into account that the results are not immediate, since a nail takes about 9 months to grow from the matrix area to the free area of the nail.
After the treatment, patients can continue with their normal life and even practice sports. It is advisable not to paint the nails so that they grow without difficulties.