Is Laser an Effective Nail Fungus Treatment?
There are so many OTC as well as prescription creams and ointments that are available for nail fungus. However, most of these medications are completely ineffective, as they don’t have the ability to penetrate the nail and reach the underlying fungal infection. While tablets are said to be effective nail fungus treatment, they take very long (about 3 months or longer) to show a noticeable difference. Also, oral medications can cause liver damage, as they have to be processed by the liver, or may interact with other medications you are taking. But what about laser treatment? Is it any good?
Well, studies have shown laser treatment to be extremely effective in treating nail fungus and the laser pulses used to destroy the fungus also stimulate growth of new nails. So, within no time, you get fungus-free, clear nails. Also, clinical studies have shown patients do not suffer from any adverse side effects when they undergo laser treatment for nail fungus.
How Does Laser Treatment Get Rid of Nail Fungus?
Laser treatment for nail fungus works by sending out high energy pulses that have the ability to penetrate the nail and reach the underlying site of the infection. The laser beam gently heats up the underlying skin and kills the fungus. The treatment is not very painful and it is extremely quick. You never have to worry about aftercare, as is the case with surgical or chemical removal of the infected nail.
Does Laser Treatment Hurt?
According to people, who have had laser treatment for nail fungus, they experience a warming sensation in the nail bed. However, some may experience mild pain. If your pain threshold is low, you can always take a break before asking the therapist to resume the treatment. Be prepared for the treated nail to feel warm. The good news is you can go back to your normal activities right after the treatment and this makes it worthwhile.
How Many Sessions Would You Require?
It all depends on the severity of the nail fungal infection and how many nails have been infected. The doctor will let you know how many treatment sessions you will require. Typically, a single laser treatment session lasts anywhere from 10 minutes to 30 minutes.
Can You Pay for the Laser Treatment Through Health Insurance?
While nail fungal infection is no longer viewed as a cosmetic problem, most insurance providers do not cover laser nail fungus treatment. This is because the use of laser automatically is deemed a cosmetic procedure. However, many clinics and treatment centers offer financing options and also accept most major credit cards.
How Soon Will You See an Improvement?
Nails tend to grow very slowly. If your toenails are have been treated with laser, they will require a whole year or 12 months to regrow completely; whereas finger nails take about 3 to 6 months to grow back completely. This said, the rate of your nail growth will be dependent on heredity, diet, exercise, season, age and gender. You will be able to see the effect of the laser, as your nail grows. If you look at the base of your nail, you will see new, clear nail growing back.
Laser is an effective nail fungus treatment that you should have no hesitation in opting for if you are suffering from toenail fungus or fingernail fungus. What do you think is the best treatment for your nail fungus infection?
Metatag:
There are many options for nail fungus treatment. Out of all the treatment options, laser treatment is the most effective and affordable