What should you know about laser and nail fungus?

Nail fungus can make a nail yellow, white or brown, thicker, brittle or crumbly, and it may separate from the nail bed. Similar changes can come from injury, psoriasis, eczema or other nail disorders. A clinician may inspect the nail and take a clipping or scraping before treatment. Laser treatment uses light or heat directed at the affected nail and may be offered as part of a plan, but the nail grows slowly and damaged areas do not change instantly. Skin fungus such as athlete's foot can coexist and may help spread infection between feet and nails.

Have the diagnosis confirmed and discuss whether laser treatment, topical antifungal treatment, oral antifungal treatment or nail surgery fits the number of nails, severity, health history and medication list. Keep feet dry, change damp socks, wear breathable footwear and avoid sharing nail tools. Do not pick under the nail or apply unreviewed products to broken skin. Follow the clinic's instructions after a laser session, including care of tenderness or redness and when to trim the nail.

Arrange medical review for pain, swelling, pus, spreading redness, a dark streak that is new or changing, or a nail lifting without a clear injury. People with diabetes, reduced circulation or a weakened immune system should seek advice early when a foot or nail becomes sore. Urgent care is needed for rapidly spreading redness, fever or severe pain.

Ask how the diagnosis will be confirmed, whether athlete's foot also needs treatment, why laser is being recommended, whether tablets or topical treatment are more suitable, and how the nail will be monitored as it grows.