Light Therapy for Nail Fungus

Onychomycosis is the scientific name for a nail fungus infection. If the fungus is not treated, it could damage the nail plate and cause the nail to break away from the nail bed and the rest of the foot. The nail could also become thick and discolored. Nail fungus occurs in 20 percent of people over the age of 40 in the US. Though treatment might consist solely of cleansing with antiseptics, more serious treatment is needed for extensive fungal infections. Unfortunately, according to freshpatents.com, most treatments used for nail fungus show a low success rate.

Standard Treatments

• Common types of treatment for nail fungus are oral medications and topical creams. Oral treatments can cause toxic side effects, and creams often diminish the symptoms for only a short period before the fungus returns. Some creams require the removal of the toenail, which can be painful, unsightly and dangerous. The nail might not grow back, or it could grow back incorrectly. When it does grow back, the fungus will most likely recur.

Ultraviolet Light Treatment

• Using ultraviolet light radiation to treat nail fungus has many benefits. Ultraviolet lighting can reach the area around the nail and underneath the nail without its having to be removed. It works without damaging or altering the nail, and it's usually painless for the patient. Not only does ultraviolet lighting sterilize the toenails, it also rids the environment of infectious fungal spores. The downside is that it costs around $1000 per treatment.

How It Works

• After a consultation with the doctor, an appointment will be set up for the procedure. The ultraviolet light is directly placed on the nail or nails with visible fungus, and the procedure takes about 30 minutes. Most people feel no pain, according to nailase.com, but some people feel a warm sensation or a prickling. Afterward you can just walk out and continue with your day. Most people need only the one treatment, but some will need more, depending on the severity of the fungus.