In South Florida where I practice dermatology, it is always sandal season. But many men and women hide their toes in the shadows of closed-toe shoes because they are embarrassed by a microscopic invader- toenail fungus. Nail fungus, or onychomycosis in medical jargon, usually appears as a white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail. As it spreads deeper, it can cause changes in the color of the nail, and lead to thickening and crumbling of the nail. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 12% of the population has nail fungus. And while toenails are affected more frequently than finger nails, the problem can be easily spread and is notoriously difficult to treat. While potentially dangerous in patients with diabetes, circulatory problems, or immunosupression, toenail fungus is often considered a cosmetic, and not a medical problem by many insurance companies for otherwise healthy patients. So what are those challenged by this bugger to do?
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