What Are My Options For Dealing With Discolored Toenails?

Dr. Michel McDonald answers the question: 'Options for Discolored Toenails'

By
Michel McDonald, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine (Dermatology), Vanderbilt University Medical Center
December 22, 2008, 3:55 PM ET
1 min read

February 20, 2009 -- Question: What are my options for dealing with discolored toenails?

Answer: I get the question a lot about discolored toenails and do I have to see a physician. Most of the time discolored toenails are due to fungus. Unfortunately, a lot of the over-the-counter products don't really treat this very well. You can try that first, but if it's not resolving, you may want to see your physician. When you see them, they're probably going to take a clipping and ensure that it is in fact a fungal infection.

The best way for this to be treated is by oral medications. These oral medications can have some side effects, so you'll have to get some blood work done often before they can be started.

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