Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection, afflicting some 10% of the adult population.
What causes fungal nail infections?
The most common fungi are members of the Tricophyton family of fungi or yeasts like Candida. Fungi are all around us, in air, dust and soil. It is thought that warm, wet environments like shower rooms, gym floors, saunas and swimming pools can also harbor fungi. Infection usually starts on the edge of the nail, but then penetrates beneath the nail, where it is difficult to reach using creams.
How does laser treatment work?
It is believed that heat disintegrates fungal structures. The ND Yag 1064 nm wavelength has the ability to pass into the nail bed. Consequently, any fungal material in the nail bed is heated to high temperatures which inhibits growth, causes damage and targets fungal cells. With the high temperatures, toxic levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and oxygen are created, disrupting fungal mitochondrial membrane potential, leading to slower growth rates and eventually growth completely stops .
One of the most appealing characteristics of laser therapy is its ability to deliver energy to the target tissue and avoid systemic side effects at the same time.
How long does the procedure take?
This depends on the severity of the infection.
Is it painful?
Most people feel a slight warming sensation during the procedure. No pain medication is needed and most people find the treatment very easy to tolerate.
How many treatments will I need?
Many patients needs 3 to 4 treatments, but some need more if they have severe cases of toenail fungus.
When will I see results?
You won’t notice anything immediately following treatment. However, as your nail grows out, the new nail growth should be clear. Toe nails grow slowly, especially nails infected with fungus. So, it may take 6-12 months for your toenail to clear.
How does ND yag laser treatment compare to other fungus treatments?
Traditional treatments such as nail trimming, topical medicine, oral medicine or nail removal have significant drawbacks. Nail trimming doesn’t treat the fungus. Topical medicines need to be applied for 12 months and have a low success rate. Oral medicines are taken for 3 months but can cause liver or kidney problems. ND Yag laser is an easy, safe, effective procedure that treats the fungus at the source. Studies of laser treatment of nail fungus show a success rate of 88%.
How much does it cost?
This depends on the severity of the infection. Typically R 250 per nail.
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