Do Laser Treatments for Nail Fungus work?
Laser Treatments for Nail Fungus seem like the most high tech way to treat nail fungus – but do they actually work?
There is very little evidence to support that Laser Treatments for Nail Fungus help.
The attraction to Laser Treatments for Nail Fungus is that a doctor uses a high-tech device that painlessly and permanently kills fungi without harming adjacent tissue.
But in one of the most conscientious and well respected studies published last year in The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, it was discovered that Laser Treatments for Nail Fungus did not improve the condition even after five treatments.
The Laser Treatments for Nail Fungus are usually not covered by insurance, and treatment normally involves multiple visits with prices often in the hundreds of dollars.
If Laser Treatments for Nail Fungus Don’t Work, Then What?
Topical Anti-Fungal Medications
For those wanting a safe and effective way to treat nail fungus, you may want to try topical treatments. Topical treatments for toenail fungus can help some people but are not effective for everyone.
One of the newest topical medications for nail fungus is Jublia. It is applied externally and does penetrate nail polish, so it can be applied directly to a polished toenail.
Topical medications have to be applied religiously every day to be even somewhat effective. Sometimes a combination of topical medications can help improve effectiveness.
Oral Anti-Fungal Medications
Oral anti-fungal medications are best at treating nail fungus and may even work better in combination with a topical anti-fungal medications.
Dr. Schlam, of Hollowbrook Foot Specialists in Wappingers Falls, NY, often recommends using a topical and an oral anti-fungal medication together.
“Remember, fungi can cause damage to the nail, ” says Dr. Schlam, “so even after it is completely eradicated, there may be space under the nail for moisture to collect and fungi to start growing again.”
Dr. Schlam recommends continuing with topical medications to prevent the fungi from returning even after you have completely killed the fungus in the toenail.
