Nail fungus (Onychomycosis) is a fungal infection that affects the nails and makes them become thick, brittle and even change in color. It can be unyielding, but it is possible to cure toenail fungus and how to avoid getting it again. Read through the following guide that will help you on how to eliminate toenail fungus permanently.
Recognizing Toenail Fungus
Fungal infection of the toenails usually begins as a small white or yellow spot under the nail. As the infection progresses, the nail may:
- Become Discolored: It may also change color to yellow, brown or white.
- Thicken: The nail is difficult to cut and may feel thick and unmanageable.
- Brittle or Crumbly: The sidewears of the nail are often rough or the nail can easily splinter.
- Change Shape: It may also become misshapen or detach from the nail bed.
- Cause Discomfort: In extreme instances, toenail fungus may produce pain when one is wearing shoes.
If you have these symptoms, refer to a skin specialist in Islamabad.
How To Get Rid Of Toenail Fungus
Nonprescription Antifungal Products
Mild cases of toenail fungus can be treated by topical application of creams, ointments or medicated nail polish for example ciclopirox. Such products can help to take several months to work and the usage has to be very regular.
Oral antifungal medications
If a fungal infection is more severe or does not go away, a doctor may administer oral antifungal medications including terbinafine or itraconazole. These medications help in eradicating the fungal infection from the body, this means that until a new healthy nail grows in place of the infected one treatment may take from six to twelve weeks and the full recovery may take some few months.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is relatively new for the treatment of nail fungal infection which is persistent in nature. A laser is employed to trace the fungus for destruction but not on other parts of the tissue. A few sessions may be required, and although helpful to some, it is usually a costly form of treatment that is not always reimbursable by insurance.
Surgical Removal of the Nail
In more severe cases if the nail is overgrown or the procedure causes the patient a lot of discomfort, a dermatologist may need to remove the nail. This makes a new healthy nail to grow in the place of the bad one. Sometimes, the nail may not regrow if the fungus got to the root of the nail or the nail bed.
Home Remedies
- Tea Tree Oil: This particular oil has the ability of fighting fungal infections. Tea tree oil is effective in treating mild toenail fungus if the affected nail is painted daily with the oil.
- Vinegar Soaks: You may try to immerse your feet in a solution of warm water and vinegar (one part vinegar to two parts water) for fifteen to twenty minutes a day to help make the environment unsuitable for fungal growth.
- Garlic: Garlic is a powerful antifungal food that is useful to eat in order to combat fungal infections.
Preventing Toenail Fungus
Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Fungus can grow in any warm and damp area. Make sure you dry the feet after showering and do not wear the same pair of socks all day. Select for moisture-wicking socks in order to avoid the feet getting wet.
Trim Nails Properly
Fungal infection can be avoided by cutting the nails frequently. It is recommended not to cut nails in any bent manner and not to cut them too near the tips since this may cause an infection.
Disinfect Nail Tools
Sanitize your nail clippers and files after each use most especially if you have previously had a fungal infection. Mold may also be transmitted by tools that are contaminated with the fungus.
Wear Breathable Footwear
Select shoes whose material can allow free circulation of air such as leather or mesh shoes. Do not wear shoes that are too tight and which hold in moisture.
Avoid using Antifungal Sprays or Powders
Foam or dust used to treat an athlete’s foot can be applied in the shoes and on the feet to avoid the growth of the fungus.
Maintain Good Foot Hygiene
Many times it is advised to wash feet daily, change socks often, and wear different shoes to avoid getting toenail fungus again.
Final Thoughts
Fungal infections of the toenails are quite stubborn but once the affected individual seeks treatment and takes precautions he or she can be free from the problem. Whether it is the drugstore drugs, doctor’s prescriptions, or folk therapies, they all work best when taken regularly. Maintaining proper foot care and hygiene will prevent toenail fungus and promote overall healthy nails.