Unless you have injured your nails, they probably
are discolored because of a chronic resistant infection. These
infections are due to various types of fungus that grow under the nails.
These fungi actually live on nail tissue and its
surrounding debris. If not carefully dealt with, they multiply and
infect more and more of the nail. Just as with teeth the longer the nail
infection is allowed to continue, the more the nail is damaged. In fact,
if neglected too long, the whole nail may need to be permanently
removed.
The nail weakens as fungi continues to grow through
the nail tissue. It becomes brittle and easily cracked or broken. Larger
and larger cavities are eaten out of the nail substance. The nail
becomes partly detached from the nail bed.
Since fungus grows faster than the nail, damage
increases and the nail becomes more and more unsightly, with the
infection spreading to the root or base of the nail. It is therefore
important that treatment be started before the infection spreads to the
matrix or root of the nail. Generally, the fungus spreads from one nail
to another or to the skin causing “athlete’s foot.” All nails eventually
may become involved.
Oral and topical medications are available to treat
this condition. If detected early before permanent loosening of the nailplate takes place, this condition can be cured. In more advanced
cases the nail may need to be removed.
If your nails appear discolored, you need to know whether it is a
fungus or other condition requiring prompt attention. We make it easy
for you to find out. Here's how....
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The physicians and staff of the A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Centers maintain two complete podiatric clinical facilities and provide 24-hour emergency service. We participate in most health plans including Blue Cross / Blue Shield, Medicare, and Medicaid. We complete and file all necessary insurance forms and make every effort to assure you of maximum benefits with minimum out-of-pocket expense.
You are invited to make an appointment today to relieve your foot problems by calling us at
970-493-4660 or 970-667-0769.
