Caleb Foster
Fingernail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition that can affect both toenails and fingernails. It is caused by fungi that multiply and lead to infection, resulting in discoloured, thickened, and distorted nails. While toenails are more frequently affected, fingernails can also become infected, particularly if there is an underlying yeast onychomycosis or fungal melanonychia infection. Treatment for fingernail fungus typically involves oral antifungal medications, such as terbinafine or itraconazole, which are taken for a shorter duration than for toenail infections. In some cases, surgical removal of the nail may be necessary if the infection does not respond to medication. However, even with successful treatment, it can take up to a year for a new, healthy nail to grow back completely.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Treatment duration | 6-18 months |
| Treatment type | Antifungal tablets, laser treatment, surgical removal, topical medication |
| Nail appearance during infection | Thick, yellow, white, black, brown, distorted, brittle, crumbly |
| Nail growth after treatment | 1 year or more |
| Preventative measures | Good general health and hygiene, not sharing manicure/pedicure tools |
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What You'll Learn
Fingernail fungus treatment
Fingernail fungus is a common type of infection that develops when fungi enter and spread in your nails. It usually starts at the edge of the nail and can cause the nail to become discoloured, thickened, distorted, and brittle. The medical term for this condition is onychomycosis.
If you think you have a fingernail fungus, it is important to seek medical help. Your doctor may prescribe antifungal medications, which are the only treatments that can cure the infection. These can be in the form of oral antifungal pills or topical versions applied directly to the nails. Oral antifungal pills typically work more quickly, with two months of treatment usually curing a fingernail fungal infection. However, they may cause side effects, and you will need regular blood tests to monitor for any problems. Topical treatments do not cause side effects but may take longer to show results.
In addition to prescription medications, there are over-the-counter treatment kits available at pharmacies that can help soften and remove infected parts of the nail. These kits contain a urea paste that softens the nail, allowing it to be scraped away gradually. This process can be repeated over several weeks until most of the infected nail has been removed. It is important to note that even with these treatments, it can take several months for the nail to grow back completely and for the appearance of the affected nail to return to normal.
For severe or stubborn infections, your doctor may recommend laser treatment or nail removal as a last resort. Laser treatment involves using high doses of light energy to destroy the fungus. However, it may need to be repeated several times and is not typically covered by insurance. Nail removal can be done surgically or non-surgically with chemicals. While this can effectively get rid of the infection, it will take at least a year for a new, healthy nail to grow back.
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Fungal nail infection symptoms
Fungal nail infections usually affect toenails, but they can also occur in fingernails. The medical term for a fungal nail infection is onychomycosis. The infection often starts at the edge of the nail and spreads to the entire nail, making it thicker and turning it white, yellow, green, or black. The nail may thicken and become difficult to trim. It may start to curl up or down or loosen from the nail bed. The nail may also become brittle and crumble when touched, and the nail may become misshapen. In some cases, there may be a bad smell.
Fungal nail infections can occur when there is a crack in the nail or the skin around it, allowing the fungus to enter and grow. Toenails are more susceptible to infection than fingernails because fungi thrive in dark, warm environments, and the toes have less blood flow, making it harder for the body to detect and prevent the infection. Additionally, wearing trainers for extended periods and having hot, sweaty feet can increase the risk of developing a fungal nail infection.
The symptoms of a fungal nail infection can vary depending on the type of infection. Initially, the infection may exhibit mild symptoms and gradually become more severe. At the outset, a white or yellow spot may appear under the nail, eventually spreading and discolouring the entire nail. In some cases, the nail may become painful or uncomfortable, especially when applying pressure to the affected area.
Treatment for fungal nail infections typically involves taking antifungal medications, such as terbinafine and itraconazole, for several months. In severe cases, the infected nail may need to be surgically removed to allow a new, healthy nail to grow in its place. Laser treatment is another option for stubborn infections, but it may need to be repeated several times and is not usually available through the NHS. It is important to follow self-care advice to prevent the condition from worsening or spreading to others.
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Nail recovery time
Fingernail fungus is a common condition that can be treated in several ways. The recovery time for fingernail fungus depends on the treatment method used and the severity of the infection. Here is an overview of the recovery process and time for different treatment options:
Topical Medication
Topical medications are applied directly to the affected nail(s). This treatment method can be effective for mild infections. It is important to follow the directions provided and apply the medication consistently as prescribed. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved certain topical medications for treating nail fungus. With this treatment, the infected nail will gradually grow out and can be clipped away as the new, healthy nail grows in. The recovery time for fingernails is typically 4 to 6 months, during which you should continue using the treatment to prevent re-infection.
Oral Antifungal Medication
For more severe or persistent infections, oral antifungal medication may be recommended. These medications are usually taken daily for several months to ensure the infection clears completely. It is crucial not to stop taking the medication too early, as this may lead to the infection returning. The recovery time for oral antifungal medication can be between 6 and 18 months, depending on the severity of the infection.
Nail Removal
In cases of severe infection or when other treatments have failed, nail removal may be necessary. This can be done surgically or non-surgically (using a chemical). With nail removal, the infected nail is completely removed, and a new nail will eventually grow back in its place. The recovery time for nail removal can be a year or more for the nail to grow back completely.
Laser Treatment
Laser treatment is an option for stubborn fungal infections. It involves using high doses of light energy to destroy the fungus. However, it is not widely available as a routine treatment and may need to be repeated several times, making it an expensive option. The recovery time for laser treatment may vary, and more research is needed to determine its effectiveness and safety.
It is important to note that the recovery times mentioned above are estimates, and the actual time for nails to recover can vary depending on individual factors and the severity of the infection. Additionally, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist or your GP, for proper diagnosis and treatment advice.
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Prevention methods
Fingernail fungus is a chronic condition that tends to develop slowly. It usually starts at the edge of the nail and can spread to the entire nail, causing it to thicken and turn white or yellow. The nail may also become brittle and crumbly, and in some cases, the whole nail can lift off, leading to swollen and painful skin around it. While prescription medications are the only treatments that can cure fingernail fungus, there are several prevention methods you can follow to stop the condition from worsening or spreading to other nails. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive prevention methods to help you deal with fingernail fungus:
- Practice Good Nail Hygiene: Keep your nails clean and dry. Wash your hands regularly and dry them thoroughly, especially after washing. Avoid biting your nails or picking at your cuticles, as this can create tiny tears in the skin that allow fungi to enter.
- Trim Your Nails Regularly: Cut your nails straight across and file them smoothly. Avoid cutting them too short, as this can lead to injury and create an opportunity for fungi to enter.
- Wear Protective Gloves: When your hands are likely to be exposed to water for prolonged periods, such as when washing dishes or cleaning, wear rubber gloves to protect your nails from excessive moisture.
- Choose the Right Nail Polish: Avoid using acrylic nails or gel manicures, as they can trap moisture and create a favourable environment for fungi to thrive. If you wear nail polish, choose a breathable nail polish that allows moisture to escape. Remove nail polish regularly and give your nails a break between applications.
- Disinfect Nail Tools: Always disinfect your nail clippers, files, and other tools before and after use. You can use rubbing alcohol or disinfectant wipes to clean them.
- Avoid Sharing Nail Tools: Do not share your nail tools with others, as this can spread the infection. If you get a manicure or pedicure, ensure the salon sterilizes their tools properly.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Fungi that cause athlete's foot can also infect your nails. Wear sandals or shoes that allow your feet to breathe, especially in public places like pools and locker rooms.
- Treat Athlete's Foot: If you have athlete's foot, treat it promptly to reduce the risk of nail fungus. Use antifungal powders or sprays, and keep your feet clean and dry.
- Choose Cotton Socks: Wear socks that absorb moisture, such as those made of cotton or wool blends. Change your socks daily or more often if your feet tend to sweat heavily.
- Practice Good Hand and Foot Hygiene: Wash your hands and feet regularly, especially after touching infected nails or surfaces that may harbour fungi, such as public shower floors.
- See a Doctor: If you notice any signs of nail fungus, see your doctor or dermatologist early. They can provide you with appropriate medical treatments and advice to prevent the condition from worsening or spreading.
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Laser treatment
Types of Laser Treatment
There are two types of laser devices used in this treatment: blue light lasers and carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers. Both have proven benefits in treating toenail fungus infections. The fractional CO2 laser ablates the nail plate, disrupting the growth of the fungus. The Ti:sapphire laser is another type of solid-state laser that delivers a substantial amount of energy per pulse while sparing the surrounding tissue from excessive heating.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of laser treatment for nail fungus varies, and more research is needed to assess its effectiveness. A 2016 clinical study found that patients treated with laser technology showed clear nails three and six months after treatment, with a high success rate and a 91% improvement in symptoms after six months. Another study in 2019 found evidence suggesting that laser therapy can be effective and safe, with a CO2 laser achieving the best overall results and a good safety profile.
Cost
The cost of laser treatment for nail fungus can vary depending on several factors, and it may not be covered by insurance. Some estimates indicate that the cost can range from $200 to $700 per session, and the treatment may need to be repeated several times over the course of a year.
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Frequently asked questions
It can take up to a year or more for a fingernail to grow back completely.
The infection causes the nail to become discoloured (white, yellow, brown or black), thickened, distorted and brittle.
Antifungal treatments are thought to be effective in treating about 60 to 80% of fungal nail infections. Oral antifungal medications are more effective than topical ones. Laser treatment is also an option, but it is not usually available on the NHS.
