Toenail fungus is known medically as onychomycosis, and affects millions of people worldwide. It is estimated that somewhere between 5 and 10 percent of adults and nearly half of adults over 70 years of age are afflicted with toenail fungus. There are many misconceptions about toenail fungus and its treatment. Although it is commonly portrayed to be nothing more than an unsightly condition, this is untrue. Anyone who suffers from toenail fungus knows that this condition is extremely painful. Furthermore, topical and oral treatments are ineffective and simply do not work. While a select few may experience some relief from oral medication, achieving results can take months, if at all.

An affected toenail appears unusually thickened, yellowed and darkened in color. They can also be cracked and weak. The fungus is able to enter the nail when the nail plate suffers damage, and it then begins its unsightly growth, soon becoming very uncomfortable.

Many things can cause damage to the nail plate. Common injuries, such as accidentally dropping an object on a toe, stubbing it, or someone else stepping on it, as well as participating in physical activities such as running and athletics in ill fitting footwear can cause enough damage to allow the toenail fungus the opportunity to grow. Using cutting equipment which has not been adequately sterilized is another common cause.

Toenail fungus breeds in moist areas. Thus, keeping your feet and shoes as clean and dry as possible is one of the best ways to prevent toenail fungus. Using an antifungal spray in your shoes is a great prevention method. Toenail fungus can also be picked up in public locker rooms, so be sure to always wear flip-flops or shower shoes. 

However, if you have contracted toenail fungus, the best way to rid yourself of this condition is with the newest technology currently available, laser surgery. Patients enjoy an 80 to 87 percent success rate with laser surgery. Indeed, this technology is undoubtedly the most effective method of treating toenail fungus. This treatment is completely painless, and only takes thirty minutes. With laser treatment, patients are treated quickly and effectively with no drugs and no anesthesia. A laser light is used to destroy the fungus cells by harmlessly passing through the nail and penetrating the nail plate, where it originates. The procedure allows the new nail to grow in healthy and clear, which normally takes several weeks. Unlike competing medication-driven treatments for toenail fungus, laser surgery presents minimal risk of side effects. It must be administered by a qualified podiatrist.