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How Fungal Nail Infections Start

—and How We Treat Them in the South Chicago Suburbs

Expert Fungal Infection Care

Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, are incredibly common in the South Chicago suburbs. As board-certified podiatrists at ASG Foot & Ankle Clinic, we see this condition frequently and have extensive experience treating it effectively.

Understanding how these infections start is the first step toward prevention and effective treatment. In this article, we'll explain the causes, symptoms, and our comprehensive treatment approach available right here in the South Chicago suburbs.

How Fungal Nail Infections Begin

The Entry Points

Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Common entry points include:

  • • Small cuts or separations between the nail and nail bed
  • • Cracks in the skin around the nails
  • • Shared surfaces like shower floors, locker rooms, or pool decks
  • • Contaminated nail clippers or files

Risk Factors

Certain conditions make you more susceptible to fungal infections:

  • • Diabetes or poor circulation
  • • Weakened immune system
  • • Excessive sweating
  • • Wearing tight or closed shoes for long periods
  • • Walking barefoot in public areas

The Progression

1

Initial Infection

Fungus enters through a small opening and begins to grow in the warm, moist environment under the nail.

2

Spreading

The fungus spreads from the tip of the nail toward the cuticle, causing discoloration and thickening.

3

Established Infection

If untreated, the fungus can spread to surrounding nails and skin, becoming more difficult to eradicate.

Signs and Symptoms

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Discoloration

Nails may turn yellow, brown, white, or black. The discoloration often starts at the tip and spreads inward.

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Thickening

Infected nails become thicker and more brittle. They may become distorted in shape and difficult to trim.

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Separation

The nail may separate from the nail bed, creating a gap where debris and fungus can accumulate.

Our Treatment Approach in South Chicago Suburbs

Topical Treatments

For mild to moderate infections, we prescribe prescription-strength antifungal creams, lacquers, and solutions that penetrate the nail.

  • • Ciclopirox (Penlac) nail lacquer
  • • Amorolfine (Loceryl) cream
  • • Terbinafine (Lamisil) cream
  • • Regular application for 3-12 months

Oral Medications

For more severe or widespread infections, oral antifungal medications may be necessary. These work from within the body to attack the fungus.

  • • Terbinafine (Lamisil) - 12 weeks
  • • Itraconazole (Sporanox) - pulse therapy
  • • Fluconazole (Diflucan) - weekly dosing
  • • Liver function monitoring required

Advanced Therapies

For stubborn infections, we offer cutting-edge treatments that aren't available everywhere.

  • • Laser therapy for fungus elimination
  • • Photodynamic therapy
  • • Combination treatment protocols
  • • Surgical nail removal in severe cases

Prevention Strategies

We teach our patients how to prevent reinfection and protect family members.

  • • Proper foot hygiene routines
  • • Antifungal foot powders
  • • Separate nail care tools
  • • Breathable footwear choices

Why Patients Choose ASG Foot & Ankle Clinic

Board-Certified Experts

Nearly 30 years of experience treating fungal infections in the South Chicago suburbs.

Latest Technology

Access to advanced treatments like laser therapy and photodynamic treatments.

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Local Care

Convenient locations in Homewood, South Chicago Heights, and Mokena.

Ready to Treat Your Fungal Nail Infection?

Don't let fungal nail infections affect your confidence and foot health. Our experienced podiatrists in the South Chicago suburbs can help you get clear, healthy nails again.