Can I consult with a doctor on Laso MD regarding my nail infection?

Absolutely! Typically, our healthcare professionals can identify and diagnose nail infections by discussing your symptoms, reviewing signs of nail infections, and considering your medical history. They may also conduct a physical examination.

On occasion, additional tests may be recommended by our healthcare providers to pinpoint the specific cause of your nail infection. Once a definitive diagnosis is made, our professionals can recommend effective treatments tailored to your condition.

 

Can I receive a prescription through Laso MD?

Certainly! Our physicians are equipped to prescribe medications for nail infections during your online consultation. Upon accepting the prescription, you have the flexibility to either pick it up from any pharmacy or opt for convenient doorstep delivery, all at no extra cost.

 

What are nail infections?

Nail infections refer to bacterial or fungal infections that manifest on, around, or beneath the fingernails or toenails. When the skin surrounding the nail is affected, the condition is identified as “paronychia.”

The term “onychomycosis” is used for nail fungus, with a higher prevalence in toenails compared to fingernails. This inclination may be attributed to the conducive moist environment and the fact that we tend to wash our feet less frequently than our hands.

Several types of fungal infections can impact nails, including:

1. Proximal subungual infections
2. White superficial infections
3. Distal subungual infections
4. Candida infections

 

What are the indications of a nail infection?

The symptoms and indicators of nail infections can vary based on the type and severity of the infection.

Common symptoms of nail infections include:

• Crumbling, brittle, or ragged nails
• Discoloration ranging from white to yellow-brown
• Thickened nails
• Foul-smelling nails
• Distorted nail shapes
• Darkened nails due to debris accumulation underneath
• Nail lifting from the nail bed
• Yellow-greenish pus-filled abscesses around or under the nail
• Redness or swelling around the nail
• Tenderness or pain

 

What leads to nail infections?

Nail infections commonly result from bacterial or fungal sources. Factors such as nail biting, picking, manicures, and ingrown nails can contribute to these infections. Additionally, frequently wet hands, finger or toe injuries, and regular exposure to skin or nail-damaging chemicals are common culprits.

Certain individuals are at a higher risk of nail infections, including:

• Diabetics
• Those with consistently wet hands (e.g., cleaners, dishwashers)
• Individuals with other skin conditions like dermatitis
• People with weakened or compromised immune systems

 

How are nail infections diagnosed?

Typically, a doctor can diagnose nail infections by assessing the presented symptoms and conducting a physical examination to determine the type and severity of the infection.

In rare cases, healthcare providers may suggest testing pus or discharge from the infection to pinpoint the specific type of infection.

Once a diagnosis is established, healthcare providers can recommend suitable treatments for nail infections, including any necessary prescription medications tailored to your condition.

 

How are nail infections addressed?

The recommended nail infection treatments from your healthcare provider are contingent upon the severity of your condition, whether it is acute or chronic, and the underlying cause of the infection.

Actions to assist with fungal infections include:

• Trimming nails straight across
• Avoiding the sharing of nail trimming tools
• Maintaining clean and dry feet, changing socks throughout the day if closed-toed shoes are worn
• Regular use of antifungal powder or spray
• Avoiding going barefoot in public spaces, such as showers, pools/splash pads, and locker rooms

For infections around the nail, healthcare providers may advise soaking the affected finger or toe in warm water three to four times a day.

In cases of fungal or severe bacterial infections, prescription nail infection medications like antibiotics or antifungal drugs may be recommended. Treating chronic nail infections may involve weeks or months of topical or oral treatments, with a success rate of approximately 50%. However, there is a risk of recurrence even after successful treatment. Severe fungal infections may necessitate surgical removal of the nail.

In more critical situations, healthcare providers may need to drain pus from abscesses as part of the nail infection treatment.

It is crucial to address nail infections promptly to prevent permanent damage to the nails and minimize the risk of spreading the infection to surrounding skin.

 

When to Consult a Doctor for Nail Infections?

If you suspect a nail infection, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and receive personalized recommendations for effective nail infection treatments.

In instances of severe nail infections, especially those requiring prescription medications, a healthcare provider from Laso MD can offer the assistance you need to bring the infection under control.

Ignoring the pain associated with infections can lead to serious consequences if left untreated. Let Laso MD guide you towards a path of improved health.

 

What is Laso MD?

Laso MD provides a swift avenue to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider within minutes. As a healthcare app, we offer convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.

Simply log in, request a consultation with a tap of a button, and we’ll promptly connect you to a doctor through live chat or video. Visit our How it Works page to explore more about our services.

Our dedicated healthcare team can assess your symptoms and provide necessary treatments, including prescriptions when required.