Why You Keep Getting Toenail Fungus — And What to Do About It

It can be frustrating to get toenail fungus, but fortunately for many people, it can be easily treated and put in the past. However, for others, toenail fungus is a repetitive issue. Why might you get toenail fungus over and over, and what can you do to break the cycle?

At Southwest Foot & Ankle in Scottsdale, Arizona, we offer a number of treatments for podiatric woes. One of the most common is onychomycosis, or toenail fungus. At our clinic, we can get rid of your problem for good. 

Petrina C. Lewis, DPM, FACFAS, and Mark T. Lewis, DPM, FACFAS, are happy to help you determine which treatment is most suitable for your needs and provide you with the best podiatric care. 

Why some people get onychomycosis over and over 

First of all, this condition, caused by a fungal infection, is very common. Many people will get it at least once in their lives. Certain risk factors — like old age, diabetes, psoriasis, and a weakened immune system — can make you more prone to experiencing this type of infection. 

But some people experience the condition over and over and don’t know why. Here are some of the common reasons this occurs. 

Improper foot hygiene 

It’s important to wash your feet thoroughly as you would every other part of your body. But you also need to wear shoes that fit properly and change your footwear and socks often, especially if you sweat a lot. Sweaty feet are a breeding ground for fungi. 

Not wearing shoes 

Some people like to walk around barefoot, whether they’re at home, outside, or in a shared public space like a pool or the gym. This type of behavior can be what’s causing you to get fungal infections constantly. 

You need to make sure you wear clean, breathable shoes, especially when you’re out or in an environment where fungi can breed freely. 

Continued exposure

If you’re taking care of your feet but you frequent a certain nail salon, gym, public pool, or another facility of this type, ask yourself if you may be continuing to expose yourself to fungi. Maybe you should think about finding a new place to get your pedicure or your daily swim. 

Not properly treating the condition 

Unfortunately, toenail fungus doesn’t go away on its own. If you’ve been waiting for the condition to run its course, you’re not going to be pleased with the results. In the same fashion, some people start treating the issue but don’t finish, which can also lead to a recurrence. 

Treating toenail fungus once and for all

Any of these reasons (or a combination of them) could be why you experience recurring problems with nail fungus. And, though there are many treatments available over-the-counter, most people do require help from a medical professional, especially if the problem has happened more than once. 

We offer the easy, pain-free option of laser treatment. With a device that uses light waves, our providers can isolate and heat the fungus beneath your nail bed. The heat kills the fungus. For most patients, only one treatment is necessary, and after a year, your nail will grow back to its healthy, natural state. 

We recommend this treatment, especially if you’ve had recurring issues with toenail fungus. Laser treatment handles the problem in one fell swoop, killing the fungi and keeping it from growing back. You’ll be free from toenail fungus, and, in almost no time, you’ll see your healthy nails begin to grow back. 

Do I need laser therapy for toenail fungus?

If your nails have become brittle, yellow, crumbly, or smelly because of recurring issues with toenail fungus, this treatment is likely the best and easiest option for you. We’re happy to help you feel comfortable and confident again and give you additional tips on how to prevent the issue in the future. 

Make an appointment at Southwest Foot & Ankle today. Call our office at 480-900-7399 or schedule a visit online. We look forward to meeting you!