Nail fungus is nothing to tip toe around
Posted 05-13-2015 at 07:03 AM by info4yourlife2015
For the first time in more than 10 years Canadians can now talk to their doctors about a new treatment option to fight nail fungus infections. Affecting approximately 2.4 million Canadians (and as many as 18 per cent of those are over 60), nail fungus is a common concern. Health Canada recently approved a product called Jublia, a topical anti-fungal medication for toenails.As a progressive, persistent and contagious condition causing discomfort and pain in severe cases, toenail fungus or onychomycosis, can have a significant impact on an individual's emotional, social, and professional life. In a recent study conducted by Leger Marketing, nearly two-thirds of Canadians who suffer, or have suffered from toenail fungus feel embarrassed about their condition and 50 per cent actually avoid wearing sandals or going barefoot.
Dr. Mani Raman, a cosmetic and medical dermatologist based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, has been treating patients with this type of infection for years. “Safety and efficacy are as important to me as they are to my patients,” he points out. “A treatment choice that offers good fungus cure rates while avoiding the possible side effects of oral medication dramatically changes how I can treat this persistent condition.”
“In the past, our success with topical treatment has been relatively poor,” he continues. “Systemic medications are effective, but they may have considerable drug interactions and side effects, including possible liver toxicity. Patients often decide not to take them. As a physician, not being able to help my patients is always frustrating.” So what does toenail fungus look like? When a nail develops a fungal infection, it typically turns white or yellow, all or part of the nail becomes damaged and debris may accumulate under the nail. As the infection progresses, the nail may thicken, crumble, and gradually fall off. It is not surprising that unsightly, infected toenails might cause people to shun close, intimate relationships, or avoid work, sports or other activities that may hurt or lead to embarrassment.
“The Jublia treatment works by penetrating through the nail to target the source of the infection,” Dr. Raman explains. “And, unlike the oral medications, this one does not affect other parts of the body, like the liver, reducing the risk of complications. This is especially important for individuals who are managing other health concerns like diabetes.”
The doctor points out that the approval of Jublia is a welcome addition to the fight against toenail fungus. “It has been well-studied internationally and at home, with 15 investigator sites in Canada. The treatment has shown to be almost as effective as systemic treatments, but with a safety profile that is far superior to systemic treatment. Some say it's a game changer in terms of what we can now recommend.”More information is available from your family physician, dermatologist or podiatrist.
Dr. Mani Raman, a cosmetic and medical dermatologist based in Richmond Hill, Ontario, has been treating patients with this type of infection for years. “Safety and efficacy are as important to me as they are to my patients,” he points out. “A treatment choice that offers good fungus cure rates while avoiding the possible side effects of oral medication dramatically changes how I can treat this persistent condition.”
“In the past, our success with topical treatment has been relatively poor,” he continues. “Systemic medications are effective, but they may have considerable drug interactions and side effects, including possible liver toxicity. Patients often decide not to take them. As a physician, not being able to help my patients is always frustrating.” So what does toenail fungus look like? When a nail develops a fungal infection, it typically turns white or yellow, all or part of the nail becomes damaged and debris may accumulate under the nail. As the infection progresses, the nail may thicken, crumble, and gradually fall off. It is not surprising that unsightly, infected toenails might cause people to shun close, intimate relationships, or avoid work, sports or other activities that may hurt or lead to embarrassment.
“The Jublia treatment works by penetrating through the nail to target the source of the infection,” Dr. Raman explains. “And, unlike the oral medications, this one does not affect other parts of the body, like the liver, reducing the risk of complications. This is especially important for individuals who are managing other health concerns like diabetes.”
The doctor points out that the approval of Jublia is a welcome addition to the fight against toenail fungus. “It has been well-studied internationally and at home, with 15 investigator sites in Canada. The treatment has shown to be almost as effective as systemic treatments, but with a safety profile that is far superior to systemic treatment. Some say it's a game changer in terms of what we can now recommend.”More information is available from your family physician, dermatologist or podiatrist.
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