Question
I'm in great health, no medications and am 58yrs old. Don't wear heels except about once per month.  I think I have a nail fungus (brittle nails and a bit cloudy and yellowed.  I've been treating this for about 2 yrs with different remedies but it's not cured.

Now for the puzzling part. My big toe on the outside edge next to the nail throbs and is so sensitive that even a sheet touching it at night hurts. There is no redness or blister of any sort.

Any ideas?  I'm in Clearwater FL.

Answer
Hi Dianne,

The nail throbbing may be resulting from thickening of the nail causing repetitive stress to the toe.  This can also occur with a new pair of shoes or new activity.  In some cases the edge of the nail may curve and become ingrown even without redness.  I would see a podiatrist for evaluation.  For the fungus, there will be a new FDA approved laser treatment to kill toenail fungus.  The laser is made by Nomir medical and is called the Noveon.  I will be getting the laser as soon as it is approved and will provide treatments in Tampa.

Good Luck.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
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