Ava Monroe
Nail fungus is a common condition that can affect both the fingernails and toenails. It is important to treat nail fungus in a timely manner to prevent further growth and spread. Diagnosis is typically done by a dermatologist who may take a nail sample and examine it under a microscope. Treatment options range from natural remedies such as Listerine foot soaks and Vicks VapoRub to prescription medications like ciclopirox nail lacquer and urea cream. More aggressive treatments include medical procedures such as nail debridement, microdrilling, and nail avulsion.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Diagnosis | A dermatologist may take a sample from a nail by removing buildup, clipping off a bit of the nail, or scraping its surface. |
| Treatment | Ciclopirox nail lacquer, prescription oral antifungals (e.g. terbinafine, fluconazole), laser treatment, home remedies (e.g. essential oils, Vicks VapoRub, tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil) |
| Nail Trimming | A dermatologist may trim away any infected nail to make it easier for treatment to work and reduce the amount of fungus. |
| Nail Debridement | A medical procedure performed by a dermatologist to reduce nail thickness, which can improve the effectiveness of treatment for nail fungus. |
| Microdrilling | A medical procedure where a dermatologist uses a drill that looks like a pen to make holes in the nail. |
| Prevention | Wash feet with soap and water, wear shower shoes in public areas, wear breathable shoes that fit well, disinfect nail clippers and home pedicure tools, avoid applying polish to infected nails, treat athlete's foot |
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What You'll Learn
Prescription medication
Prescription antifungal pills are the most effective treatment for toenail fungus, and may help get rid of the infection faster. One such medication is Noxafil, which is available as a pill or a liquid suspension. Posaconazole is another prescription pill option, although it is usually used to treat more serious fungal infections. Other prescription pills include terbinafine and itraconazole, which are generally taken once a day for 6 to 12 weeks and may have side effects such as headaches, skin rashes, vomiting, stomach upset, and respiratory infection.
Topical prescription medications are also available, such as the 10% efinaconazole (Jublia®) solution, which is used to treat fungal infections of the toenails and the surrounding skin. Ciclopirox nail lacquer is another topical prescription medication that can be used to treat nail fungus on both fingernails and toenails in individuals aged 12 and above. It is important to remove any loose nails before applying this medication, and to cover the entire nail as well as the surrounding skin.
In addition to prescription medications, there are other medical procedures that can be performed by a dermatologist to help treat nail fungus. These include nail trimming and debridement, which reduce nail thickness and the amount of fungi present. Microdrilling is another procedure that uses a drill that resembles a pen to create holes in the nail. While laser treatments can improve the appearance of nails after a fungal infection, they are not approved by the FDA as a treatment for the infection itself.
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Natural remedies
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects approximately 14% of the global population at any given time. It can cause thickened, discoloured, or brittle nails, leading to discomfort and self-consciousness. While medical treatments are available, many people opt for natural or at-home remedies. Here are some natural remedies to treat toenail fungus:
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial qualities that may help stop a toenail fungal infection from worsening. Paint the oil directly onto the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab. Tea tree oil can also be used in conjunction with oregano oil, which contains thymol, a compound with antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Apple Cider Vinegar
White vinegar is a timeless home remedy for toenail fungus due to its natural antifungal properties. Soak your feet in a bowl of vinegar for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Vinegar soaks can also help eliminate foot odour and act as a disinfectant.
Mouthwash
The gold-coloured Listerine Original Antiseptic Mouthwash is one of the best over-the-counter treatments for toenail fungus. It contains thymol, a plant compound with antifungal properties. Fill a basin with Listerine and soak your feet and nails in the liquid for 15 minutes, two to three times a week.
Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment that contains ingredients such as camphor, menthol, eucalyptus oil, and thymol, which may help treat toenail fungus. Apply a small amount to the affected area at least three to four times a week, or even daily. You can use a cotton swab to work it under the nail and put on a sock to keep it in place.
It is important to note that while these natural remedies can be effective for mild cases, severe or persistent fungal infections may require medical attention. Additionally, before trying any at-home remedies, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to create a suitable treatment plan.
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Laser treatment
To ensure successful treatment and avoid reinfection, it is important to maintain good foot hygiene. This includes keeping your feet dry, wearing breathable shoes, disinfecting regularly, and trimming your nails properly.
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Nail trimming
If your dermatologist determines that nail trimming is necessary, they will trim away the infected parts of the nail during your visit. To ensure that all infected nail material is removed, you may need to return to your dermatologist's office as frequently as once a month.
In some cases, your dermatologist may recommend nail debridement, a medical procedure that reduces nail thickness. This procedure can be particularly useful in treating nail fungus, as the fungus can cause nails to thicken. By reducing the nail's thickness, debridement can make it easier to trim the infected nail, walk, and wear shoes comfortably.
It is important to note that nails grow back slowly, and the regrowth process can take a significant amount of time. For example, an entire fingernail can take six months or longer to regrow, while toenails can take 12 to 18 months.
While you may be able to manage mild nail fungus with home remedies, it is always best to consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can advise you on the best course of action, which may include prescription medications or other medical procedures.
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Nail debridement
A fungal nail infection causes the nail to become discoloured, thickened, distorted, and brittle. It can cause pain, discomfort, and physical impairment, negatively impacting one's quality of life.
Nail trimming and surgical and nonsurgical nail removal are other procedures that can be used to treat severe infection or when medical therapy fails. It is important to note that nails grow slowly, and it can take 6 months or longer for fingernails to regrow and 12 to 18 months for toenails.
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Frequently asked questions
Some home remedies to treat nail fungus include Vicks VapoRub, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil. However, it's important to note that home remedies may not work for everyone and prescription medication may be necessary in some cases.
Ciclopirox nail lacquer is a prescription medication used to treat nail fungus on both fingernails and toenails. Oral antifungals such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or fluconazole (Diflucan) are also commonly used to treat toenail fungus.
Nails usually grow back slowly, and the regrowth time depends on whether it's a fingernail or toenail. Fingernails can take 6 months or longer to regrow, while toenails can take 12 to 18 months.
