Laser Nail Fungi Treatment is an advanced option for managing fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis. Our feet are among the most used parts of the body and are particularly exposed to fungal infections because they are often enclosed in shoes and exposed to moisture.
At Avané Clinic in Nairobi, laser technology is used to treat fungal nail infections and help improve the appearance and health of affected nails.
What Is a Nail Fungal Infection?
Onychomycosis, or nail fungal infection, occurs when fungal organisms infect the nail bed and nail plate. Dermatophytes are among the most common causes. These fungi feed on keratin, the material that makes up the nails.
Other fungi, including yeast and moulds, can also cause nail infections.
Fungal infections are more common in toenails than fingernails. This is partly because feet are often warm, moist and enclosed, creating an environment where fungi can grow.
An infected nail may become brittle, weak or discoloured. It may also develop white or yellow patches and begin to crumble.
Types of Nail Fungal Infections
There are four main types of nail fungal infections:
Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis
This type appears as white patches near the centre of the nail bed and may spread as the nail grows. It is less common and may occur more frequently in people with weakened immune systems.
White Superficial Onychomycosis
White superficial onychomycosis affects the surface of the nail, particularly the toenails. It usually begins as white spots that may become powdery and cause the nail to crumble.
Candidal Onychomycosis
Candidal onychomycosis is caused by yeast and mainly affects the fingernails. The area around the nail may become swollen and inflamed, and the nail may separate from the nail bed.
Distal Onychomycosis
Distal onychomycosis is the most common type. It is usually caused by dermatophytes and begins at the nail bed or edge before spreading towards the centre. The affected area may appear yellow or discoloured.
How Do Nail Fungal Infections Spread?
Nail fungal infections can spread through direct contact with an infected person. Fungi may also remain on materials such as clothing, shoes and other personal belongings.
Sharing shoes or other personal items with someone who has a fungal infection can increase the risk of transmission. Fungi may also survive on surfaces in places such as gyms, swimming pools and changing areas.
Good foot hygiene and avoiding shared personal items can help reduce the risk of infection.
Who Is at Risk of Nail Fungal Infections?
Nail fungal infections can affect people of different ages and backgrounds. However, certain groups may have a higher risk of developing onychomycosis.
These include:
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
- People who wear closed shoes for long periods
- People with foot or toe injuries
- People with cracked or damaged nails
Fungi can enter through cracks in the nail or surrounding tissue, making damaged nails more vulnerable to infection.
Laser Nail Fungi Treatment at Avané Clinic
There are several treatment options for fungal nail infections. Depending on the infection and individual circumstances, a healthcare professional may recommend topical or oral antifungal treatments or other approaches.
At Avané Clinic, Laser Nail Fungi Treatment uses laser technology as an option for managing nail fungal infections. The clinic uses Splendor X laser technology for onychomycosis treatment.
How Does Laser Nail Fungi Treatment Work?
Splendor X uses laser energy to deliver controlled heat to the affected nail and surrounding tissue. The laser is directed over the infected nail to target the affected area.
The treatment is performed by a healthcare professional who ensures the affected nail is properly exposed to the laser.
The Splendor X system also has an integrated cooling mechanism. This helps improve comfort during the procedure by delivering cooling air while the laser is applied.
What to Expect During Laser Nail Fungi Treatment
During Laser Nail Fungi Treatment, the laser is applied directly to the affected nail several times. The cooling system helps make the procedure more comfortable.
Treatment time varies depending on the number of nails being treated. Treating one hand or foot may take up to approximately 20 minutes, while treating both hands and feet may take longer.
After treatment, patients can generally return to their normal activities, subject to their healthcare professional’s advice.
Laser Nail Fungi Treatment Results
Nails grow slowly, so improvements may take time to become visible. As a healthy nail grows from the base, the appearance of the affected nail may gradually improve.
The treatment period varies depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s nail growth rate. Multiple sessions may be recommended, and the overall process can take several months.
Benefits of Laser Nail Fungi Treatment
Laser Nail Fungi Treatment offers a targeted approach to managing fungal nail infections. It can be performed without extensive downtime and may be considered as an alternative or complementary option to other treatments.
The use of laser technology can also help target affected nails while the integrated cooling system helps improve patient comfort during treatment.
Avané clinic is redefining how certain conditions that previously had less effective treatment are being managed. Through laser treatments, we can now help you treat skin conditions and even fungal infections. You can be one of the people who benefit from this treatment and enjoy the advantages that come with the use of laser technology, especially Splendor X technology. Visit us today at theYaya centre, in Nairobi, Kenya today to consult with our doctors. Moreover, you can alsocontact us to book your appointment or consult with our doctors.