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Fungal Toenails Specialist

Jim Francois, D.P.M., P.T, PA Our Services Fungal Toenails
Jim Francois, D.P.M., P.T, PA - - Foot & Ankle Surgeon

Jim Francois, D.P.M., P.T, PA

Foot & Ankle Surgeon & Podiatrist located in North Miami Beach, FL

Though common, toenail fungal infections can cause your toenails to become unsightly and brittle. Instead of avoiding sandals and bare feet, find a solution with podiatrist Jim François, DPM, PT, PA at his North Miami Beach, Florida office. Fungal nail infections don’t improve without treatment, so there’s no reason to delay scheduling. Call Dr. François’s office today to book your initial consultation, or go online to use the booking tool and be one step closer to healing your nails. Dr.François also serves the communities of Aventura, Miami, Miami Gardens, Miami Lakes, North Miami, Opa-Locka, and Sunny Isles, FL.

Fungal Toenails Q & A

What are the symptoms of fungal nail infections?

When you have a fungal nail infection, you may experience a range of symptoms. Called onychomycosis, nail infections can lead to:

  • Nail discoloration
  • Nail thickening
  • Cracks and breaks
  • Brittle nails
  • Distorted nail shape
  • Slightly foul odor

Skin infections, particularly athlete’s foot, may accompany your fungal nail infection.

What causes fungal nail infections?

Fungal nail infections occur after your toenails are exposed to different types of fungi, including yeasts and molds. These microscopic germs infect your nail through small cracks in your nail or surrounding skin or via open wounds.

Although anyone exposed to the right fungi can develop a fungal nail infection, certain people have a higher risk, including those who have:

  • A nail injury
  • Diabetes
  • A weak immune system
  • Circulation problems
  • Athlete’s foot

Can you prevent fungal nail infections?

With proper care, you can prevent fungal nail infections. Dr. François recommends that you don’t walk barefoot in public areas, including locker rooms, public showers, and community swimming pools. Avoid sharing nail manicuring tools, such as nail clippers, with others, because the fungi that cause nail infections can be highly contagious.

Keeping your feet and toes clean and dry can also prevent fungal nail infections. Trim your toenails short and straight across. Wash your feet daily, and dry them before putting on socks. If your feet tend to sweat, change your socks throughout the day. Moisturize your toenails to prevent dryness.

If you have pedicures at a salon, ensure it’s state-licensed. Ask about their sterilization policy, and if all instruments aren’t sterilized after each use, take your tools with you to the salon.

How do you treat fungal nail infections?

Dr. François treats your fungal nail infection with an antifungal medication. If your symptoms are mild, he may recommend an over-the-counter ointment treatment for 12 weeks.

When your fungal infection doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications, he may opt for a prescription cream or an oral antifungal. In severe cases, Dr. François may remove dead or damaged tissue through surgical debridement. If your infection becomes recurrent, he may also remove the affected nail.

If you think you may have a fungal nail infection, don’t wait to call the podiatrist; your condition won’t improve on its own. Instead, call Dr. François’s office today to schedule your initial consultation. You can even book your appointment online.

Conditions & Treatments