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Nail Fungus Specialist

Matthew F. Wachtler, DPM -  - Podiatrist

Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists

Matthew F. Wachtler, DPM

Podiatrist & Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in Cedar Grove, NJ

Up to 12% of Americans have nail fungus, with most cases occurring in the feet. At Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists, skilled podiatrist Matthew Wachtler, DPM, fights toenail fungus using scientifically proven gentle techniques and then helps you prevent a recurrence. Book your appointment by calling the Cedar Grove, New Jersey, office, or click the online scheduling tool.

Nail Fungus Q&A

What is nail fungus?

Nail fungus is a fungal infection that usually starts beneath the nail plate of your big toe. It causes problems such as:

  • White or yellow spots on the nail
  • Nail darkening
  • Nail warping
  • Ragged nail
  • Flaky nail
  • Nail crumbling
  • Odor coming from the nail
  • Thickened nail

Fungal nails aren't usually painful, but they can be very uncomfortable when you're wearing shoes. Usually, nail fungus starts in one nail, but without treatment, it can spread. 

What causes nail fungus?

The dermatophyte fungus causes most cases of nail fungus. That same fungus also causes athlete's foot, which occurs on your skin. Less commonly, yeast and certain types of molds can lead to nail fungus. 

Nail fungus can occur in anyone, but incidence doubles in adults over 60. That may be because nails weaken as you age, and tiny cracks are an ideal entry point for fungi. 

Fungi thrive in warmth and humidity, which is why you should avoid wearing damp socks and walking barefoot in public areas. Though rare, it's also possible to get nail fungus from others, through direct foot-to-foot contact or by sharing tools like nail clippers. 

If you have an immune condition, like diabetes, you're more likely to develop nail fungus since you can't fight the infection effectively. Some cases of nail fungus begin as athlete's foot, which usually appears between the toes or in other parts of your foot. 

How is nail fungus diagnosed?

Dr. Wachtler examines your foot and nails carefully. He may scrape the infected nail lightly to gather cells for testing. Verifying the specific fungus may guide your treatment protocol. 

Usually, Dr. Wachtler can diagnose your nail fungus and start your treatment immediately to ease your symptoms quickly. 

How is nail fungus treated?

Dr. Wachtler typically starts with conservative nail fungus treatments, such as topical and oral antifungal medications. 

In cases of severe nail infections that don't improve with conservative care, Dr. Wachtler may recommend nail plate removal so he can treat the skin directly. Following treatment, your new nail can grow back clear, strong, and fungus-free. 

If you need nail fungus treatment, contact Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists by phone or through online scheduling.