Introduction
The disease known as “nail fungus” belongs to the group of so-called dermatophytoses (fungal infections). Triggers of the nail fungus are usually so-called dermatophytes of the genus Trichophyton and Epidermophyton fluccosum. In addition, yeast and molds are among the most common causes of nail fungus infections.
Infection with one of the pathogens responsible for nail fungus infections occurs via the so-called smear or contact infection. It can occur both directly from person to person and via shared objects. Since a humid environment stimulates the transmission of the relevant pathogens, people who frequently spend time in swimming pools, saunas or sports cities are particularly at risk.
In many cases, it has been observed that nail fungus occurs in connection with a common fungal infection of the foot. This is especially the case if the athlete’s foot is not treated at all or only insufficiently. The affected patients notice the presence of the nail fungus mainly by a progressive lack of shine on the nail surface.
In addition, white or yellowish discoloration in the area of the nail edge can often be observed. In the course of the fungal infection, the nail plate begins to thicken and become crumbly. If the presence of nail fungus is suspected, a doctor should be consulted immediately. If suitable treatment is not carried out, the fungal infection can spread to the nail bed and also infect the renewable substance.
Nail fungus treatment with the laser
The treatment of nail fungus with laser is a relatively new therapy option. Since many fungal infections of the nail can only be cured inadequately by conventional treatment methods, the application of the laser represents a particularly innovative new procedure. Click here for the main article: Laser therapy
Mode of action
With the laser of the nail mushroom an infrared laser penetrates by means of pulse waves the attacked nails and inactivates thereby the mushroom structures. It is assumed that above all the locally concentrated heat generation leads to the destruction of the fungi in the nail area. Furthermore, the release of free radicals is supposed to kill the pathogens and their spores and eliminate the nail fungus.
There is also a theory that specific color pigments inside the fungi absorb large amounts of energy and destroy the pathogens from the inside. Laser therapy is performed on all affected nails. If the nail is already thickened or discolored, it is first prepared and sanded by a medical pedicurist.
This allows the laser beams to penetrate the nail fungus more easily. During laser therapy, the patient may feel a slight sensation of heat, pricking or tingling. However, this laser therapy is not painful.
The toenail itself is usually not damaged by the laser beams. According to American studies, up to 80% of patients reported a clear clearing of the nails after 6-12 months after only one treatment. After one year, more than 80% of the treated patients showed a clear and lasting improvement.
So far, no side effects of laser treatment of nail fungus are known and the application itself takes only a few minutes. Alternative treatment concepts to the use of special varnishes and the use of a laser are based on the oral intake of various anti-fungal agents (antimycotics). However, since many side effects of antifungal drugs can be observed, many patients refuse to take the medication.
