Laser Treatment for Fungal Nails
Fungal nail disease, medically referred to as onychomycosis, affects up to 14% of the adult population. Fungi that feed on keratin, a structural protein within your nails, frequently cause the condition. Fungal colonies proliferate in moist environments and invade the nail bed by penetrating the margins of the nail. Fungal nail disease may result in pain, impair the ability to walk and contribute to a negative self image. Some prescription medications have side effects and therefore are not always the best treatment option.
Another option is surgery to remove the nail; this is not a popular option either. Laser therapy to treat the disease is gaining popularity as a means to achieve an increase in clear nails.
Is the Procedure Painful?
During the laser treatment, a laser beam will be slowly directed across the nail bed. The laser beam will generate heat beneath the nail and within the underlying fungal colony. You will feel a warm sensation during the procedure which lasts a few minutes per toenail. There may be a slight pain sensation as a result of the heating effect of the laser treatment.