1. What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a condition characterized by the appearance of white and yellow spots under the tip of your nail. It can affect both fingernails and toenails, but it is more common in toenails. At our hair and nail clinic in Beirut, Lebanon, Dr. Yassine can help you treat nail fungus, taking into account the severity of your condition and the type of fungus causing the infection.
2. What are the symptoms of nail fungus?
The symptoms include:
- Thickening, crumbling, and discoloration of nails
- Brittle nails
- Distortion of nail shape
- Foul-smelling nails
3. When should I see a dermatologist?
When your nails become thickened, discolored, and distorted in shape, it is of sheer importance to visit a dermatologist. Moreover, you must see a dermatologist in case you have diabetes, and you think you are developing nail fungus
4. How can I tell whether or not I have nail fungus?
At Skin Expert Clinic in Beirut, Lebanon, Dr. Yassine will first examine your nails by taking some nail clippings or scraping debris from under your nails. Then, he will identify whether or not you have nail fungus and accordingly determine the best treatment for your condition.
In some cases, microorganisms such as yeast or bacteria can infect your nails; in other cases, you may have nail psoriasis, which is a condition that is different from nail fungus.
5. How is nail fungus treated at Skin Expert Clinic?
Dr. Yassine confirms that anti-fungal tablets can treat nail fungus infections, whereby patients must take these tablets for three to four months. The latest technology for treating these infections is Nd: YAG laser. It heats and destroys fungal elements without damaging the nail itself. The treatment takes about three to ten minutes. You will notice the final result after three to five sessions, to be done over two to three weeks. Resistant cases require the combination of anti-fungal tablets with laser sessions.