Which type of doctor to see? - Nail Problems Message Board

weschmom · 09-03-2007, 06:34 PM

I have had fungus on my large toenail on my right foot for a year now. It's disgusting and I hate it. I tried tea tree oil and no luck.

I'd like to see a doctor, but who do you go to? Family doc, dermatologist, podiatrist??

Marti (or anyone) -- do you know anything about the pills they will put me on (lamisil)? Should I be concerned about that? Do the pills truly work??

Thanks!

Marti · 09-03-2007, 07:14 PM

Before they put you on Lamasil, they will do a blood test to be sure you do not already have any liver problems. Persons with existing liver problems should not take Lamasil. Lamasil is usually a 3 month prescription and is very expensive - there are generics available now that are less expensive.

Keep in mind that fungus is very hard to kill as it lives deep within the tissues of the nail bed and sell as in the layers of the nail plate. The spores eat the proteins in the nail plate for 'food' and need the moisture that is in the skin to survive. You should be able to visit your regular physician as well as a dermatologist or podiatrist, depending on your type of insurance.

weschmom · 09-13-2007, 12:34 PM

Thanks Marti. I saw a podiatrist and got the prescription for Lamisil (or generic). Do you, or does anyone here, have any experience buying from a Canadian pharmacy? Their online prices are significantly cheaper than US prices.

And I read that about blood tests, but my doctor said "not necessary now", unless I have a history of a bunch different conditions, which I didn't.

Thank you!!

weschmom · 01-06-2008, 07:49 PM

I got the generic form of Lamisil and took it for 90 days. The yucky yellow toenail is growing out, and the new nail that is growing in appears to be that of a normal nail! Woo Hoo!

I had no side effects and I did not pay the ridiculous prices that others have reported. All in all, it was a great experience, and an end to this nasty fungus once and for all.