Why You Should See a Dermatologist for Fingernail Fungus and Infections

What Type of Doctor Should I See for a Nail Infection?

Urgent care or your primary care doctor may be able to help if you have a nail infection, it’s best to make a same day dermatology appointment near McLean, VA.  While you may think of a dermatologist as a skin doctor, they also specialize in the treatment of nails, hair, and other skin-related areas.  A dermatologist can assess your infection and make a treatment recommendation.

What Causes a Nail Infection?

A nail infection can be caused by a variety of factors including:

1. Fungal Infections: Fungus can grow in warm, moist environments, which makes nails susceptible to infection. A nail infection is caused by the same fungi that also leads to athletes foot.  You may notice discoloration, thickening, or crumbling nails.  This is the most common type of nail infection.
2. Bacterial Infections: Bacteria can enter the nail bed through cuts, scrapes, or other injuries, leading to bacterial nail infections. Bacterial infections can come on suddenly. The area around your nail may be red or swollen with pus.
3. Viral Infections: Certain viruses can cause warts to develop around or under the nails, resulting in pain, discomfort, and changes in nail appearance.
4. Injury: Injury to the nails can increase the risk of infection

How Are Nail Infections Treated?

Your dermatologist will choose a treatment plan for your nail infection based on the type and severity of your infections.  Treatment options include:

• Anti-fungal medications
• Topical or oral antibiotics
• Surgical nail removal
• Home care

Some patients may need a combination of treatments to effectively clear their nail infection.

Expert Nail Care from a Northern Virginia Dermatologist

Nail infections are not always straightforward, and choosing the right treatment starts with understanding what is actually happening beneath the surface. Regardless of the cause of your nail infection, seeing a dermatologist for diagnosis and a treatment plan is the best course of action to get relief from pain and prevent any further damage.

At Integrated Dermatology of Reston, Dr. Morgana Colombo, a board-certified dermatologist, leads a team providing comprehensive medical dermatology services and individualized care. Whether you’re dealing with persistent discoloration, a suspected fungal infection, or an uncomfortable nail infection that isn’t improving, our team can help evaluate your symptoms and identify appropriate treatment options. Conveniently located in Reston, we welcome patients from across Northern Virginia seeking experienced dermatologic care. If you’re looking for a dermatologist for fingernail fungus, call Integrated Dermatology of Reston at 703-437-7744 to schedule an appointment and get answers about your nail health.