“Don’t look. I’m so embarrassed. I can’t take them off. Fine you can see my…toenails.”

Many people with discolored and thickened nails are embarrassed by how their toenails look. They are afraid to wear sandals or walk barefoot because of the state of their feet. This can be especially troubling in the summer as well as all year round.

This common condition is called onychomycosis.

If you’re reading this and saying this could be me, you’re not alone. More than 20 percent of the population suffers from this condition and the percentage continues to increase as we age.

Onycomycosis is caused by fungus that infiltrates the toenail. There are many reasons people can be susceptible to this condition. Luckily, however, onychomycosis is not harmful and you don’t have to live with it. There are simple topical and oral treatment options your local podiatrist can share with you.

“I love my feet. My nails look so clear. I am never going to wear shoes again.”

“Ouch! Help! I stepped on something. I need a podiatrist.”

Enjoy your new feet this summer, but be careful!

Dr. Carla Benson, DPM, is a podiatrist working out of North Hudson Community Action Corporation on 197 Van Brunt St in Englewood, NJ. She can be reached at (201) 537-4442 or [email protected]. She is available to help with all of your family’s podiatric needs.