Should I see a dermatologist or a podiatrist for toenail fungus?

The truth is that you can go to either a dermatologist or a podiatrist to have your nail fungus treated, but it is especially important to see a podiatrist when it affects your toenails specifically.

Do dermatologists deal with toenail fungus?

Treatment usually begins with your dermatologist trimming your infected nail(s), cutting back each infected nail to the place where it attaches to your finger or toe. Your dermatologist may also scrape away debris under the nail. This helps get rid of some fungus.

Do you see a dermatologist for nail fungus?

If your fungus doesn't clear up at home, you should check in with a dermatologist (a skin, hair, and nail specialist) or podiatrist (a foot doctor.) They may gently scrape under your nail to get rid of some of the fungus or send it to the lab for diagnosis. They can also prescribe stronger medicines.

Should I go to a dermatologist or podiatrist?

If you think you are experiencing a dermatological issue related to your feet, you don't necessarily have to find a dermatologist. Your established podiatrist may be able to treat your condition. Call Dr. Hollander today if you think you may have a skin issue that is causing you discomfort or concern.

Can a podiatrist fix toenail fungus?

One way your podiatrist may treat your nail fungus is with an oral antifungal medication, that works systemically rather than being applied locally to the infected area. This makes it far more effective than an over-the-counter cream designed to treat nail infections (also known as onychomycosis).

Dermatologist Footcare Tips for Toenail Fungus, Cracked Heels, Smelly Feet, & More | Dr. Sam Ellis

How do I finally get rid of toenail fungus?

Can toenail fungus be completely cured?

Fungal nail infections typically don't go away on their own, and the best treatment is usually prescription antifungal pills taken by mouth. In severe cases, a healthcare professional might remove the nail completely. It can take several months to a year for the infection to go away.

What kind of doctor do I see for toenail issues?

While our feet, toes, and toenails are pretty resilient, injuries and conditions can develop at any time. For such situations, you should always seek podiatric care. A podiatrist can examine your toes, diagnose you, and recommend the most effective treatments.

Does Medicare cover toenail fungus treatment?

Medicare will cover treatment for fungus within your toenail. Another term for this treatment is nail debridement. To be eligible, you must have severe, debilitating pain. Evidence of several infections caused by the fungus may also qualify you.

What is better than a podiatrist?

Unlike podiatrists that only treat the foot and ankle, an orthopedic doctor also treats other body parts such as the knees, hips, and spine. If podiatrists are foot and ankle doctors, orthopedists are bone and joint specialists. Orthopedists can treat various musculoskeletal issues.

What doctor is best for toenail fungus?

You're likely to start by seeing your primary care provider. In some cases when you call to set up an appointment, you may be referred immediately to either a doctor who specializes in skin conditions (dermatologist) or one who specializes in foot conditions (podiatrist).

Do dermatologists deal with fungus?

Dermatologists treat fungal infections of the skin, as well as fungal infections in hair and nails.

What is the best prescription for toenail fungus?

Is toenail fungus removal covered by insurance?

Will your insurance cover laser treatment for toe fungus? That is a tricky question to answer. Typically, your insurance will pay for the least expensive, yet effective, option. If they and the doctor don't believe that laser treatment is necessary, they may deny your claim.

How much does it cost to get a fungal toenail removed?

How much does laser treatment cost? The cost varies depending on the number of nails involved and severity of the infection. The national average for laser treatment is between $500 and $1200.

Is toenail fungus worth treating?

Treatment isn't always needed for a mild fungal nail infection because it's unlikely to cause any further problems and you may feel it's not worth treating. Whether you decide to have treatment or not, you should still practise good foot hygiene (see below) to stop the infection getting worse or spreading to others.

When should I go to the podiatrist for toenail fungus?

You should visit a podiatrist when you notice any discoloration, thickening, or deformity of your toenails. The earlier you seek professional treatment, the greater your chance at getting your nails to clear.

What can a podiatrist do for fungal nails?

The podiatrist can mechanically debride or remove some of the fungal nail infection without the use of local anaesthesia. This is a pain free treatment and needs to be repeated every 2 months until regrowth of the nail is viewed or a change in treatment plan is required.

What are the stages of toenail fungus?

It begins as a white or yellow-brown spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, the nail may discolor, thicken and crumble at the edge. Nail fungus can affect several nails. If your condition is mild and not bothering you, you may not need treatment.

Why won't my toenail fungus go away?

Toenail fungus can be tough to get rid of because it can get into and in between those layers. It may also sit on top of the nail or grow underneath it. In some cases, fungus can get into the cells that make the nail, called the nail matrix.

How long does fungus live on nail clippers?

Fungal spores can live on all kinds of surfaces, including metal toenail clippers for months. When you cut your fungal nail with your clippers, you can easily transmit the fungi to your other toenails or reinfect yourself. In fact, the CDC recommends properly disinfecting all nail tools before every use.

Can I wear nail polish while treating nail fungus?

Nail polish traps in moisture from your nailbed (the tissue below your toenail). Because fungi thrive in moist environments, wearing nail polish may make a fungal infection worse.

How long does it take for hydrogen peroxide to get rid of fungus?

Kill mold and mildew

To kill them without having to breathe in toxic bleach fumes, spray with undiluted 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Rinse. The peroxide will kill the mold and mildew, but you may still need to remove the stains they left behind.

Does hydrogen peroxide work on toenail fungus?

Hydrogen can kill the fungus that grows on toenails, causing the unsightly disfigurement that comes with this condition. There are two common ways to use hydrogen peroxide to treat your toenail fungus.

How often to use hydrogen peroxide on toenail fungus?

I used it five times a week starting out. After the nail was once again normal, I started using it about once a week for maintenance and prevention.