Clear, Healthy Nails Are Possible. See Our Medical Approach.

What is Nail Fungus?

Onychomycosis is an infection caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. The fungus invades the nail bed and the nail plate itself, leading to a number of unsightly changes:

• Discoloration: The nail may turn yellow, brown, or white.
• Thickening: The nail becomes thick and difficult to cut.
• Brittleness: The nail may become crumbly or have ragged edges.
• Debris Buildup: A chalky substance may build up under the nail, causing it to lift from the nail bed.

Without effective treatment, the infection can worsen and spread to other nails.

Why OTC Treatments Usually Don't Work

The nail plate is a hard, protective barrier. Topical creams and polishes from the pharmacy struggle to penetrate this barrier to reach the fungus living in the nail bed underneath. This is why a multi-faceted, medical approach is often necessary for success.

Our Medical Treatment Protocol

Our strategy is to attack the fungus from multiple angles to ensure it is eradicated.

1. Accurate Diagnosis: First, Dr. Gautam will confirm that the issue is indeed a fungal infection, as other conditions can sometimes mimic the symptoms.
2. Medical Nail Debridement: This is a critical step. Dr. Gautam uses specialized, sterile instruments to painlessly thin down the thickened nail. This removes a large portion of the fungal load and, most importantly, it allows antifungal medications to penetrate deeply and effectively. Learn more about this process on our Medication Management page.
3. Prescription Medications: Based on your case, we may prescribe powerful topical antifungal solutions that are much stronger than over-the-counter options. In some severe cases, oral antifungal medication may be recommended.
4. Prevention Counseling: We provide you with practical advice on foot hygiene and footwear to prevent the infection from returning.