Sophia Delgado
Nail fungus is a common condition that can take a long time to go away. The duration of treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection, as well as the chosen treatment method. For fingernail fungus, it typically takes 4 to 6 months for the nail to grow back and return to a healthy state. On the other hand, toenail fungus can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months to clear up completely. Prescription medications, such as antifungal pills, are generally more effective and faster-acting than topical treatments or home remedies. However, it's important to consult a medical professional and follow their recommended treatment plan for the best results.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time taken for fingernails to grow back | 4 to 6 months |
| Time taken for toenails to grow back | 12 to 18 months |
| Time taken for antifungal pills to work | 2 to 3 months |
| Time taken for antifungal creams, gels, sprays, and patches to work | 10 months to 1 year or more |
| Time taken for home remedies to work | No evidence of effectiveness |
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What You'll Learn
Fingernail vs toenail fungus
Fingernail and toenail fungus are both common fungal infections that can affect the nails. Toenail fungus is more common, as fingernails are less exposed to warm, moist, dark environments, which fungi thrive in. Toenail fungus is typically caused by a type of mould called a dermatophyte, which feeds on keratin, a protein found in nails that makes them hard. Dermatophytes cause 90% of toenail fungal infections, and they can spread to other toenails, the skin, and even the scalp.
Fungal nail infections often start at the edge of the nail and spread slowly to the rest of the nail. Nails become thick, discoloured, and brittle, and may even crumble or break off completely. In severe cases, the skin around the nail can become painful and swollen. While anyone can get a fungal nail infection, certain factors increase the risk, such as athlete's foot, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), nail injuries, poor blood circulation, and a weakened immune system.
The treatment for fingernail and toenail fungus aims to clear the infection and improve the nail's appearance. Dermatologists usually start by trimming and scraping away the infected nail to reduce the amount of fungus. For mild infections, topical medications such as creams, gels, sprays, or nail polishes may be sufficient. However, for moderate to severe cases, antifungal pills may be prescribed, as they have a higher cure rate and work more quickly.
The time it takes for nails to recover from a fungal infection varies between fingernails and toenails. Fingernails typically grow out in 4 to 6 months, while toenails can take 12 to 18 months to fully regrow. During this time, it is important to consistently use the prescribed medication to prevent the fungus from returning. Even with successful treatment, nail fungus can recur, so it is important to take preventative measures, such as wearing shower shoes in public places and keeping your nails trimmed and filed.
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Prescription medication
Your doctor may prescribe antifungal pills such as terbinafine (typically used for skin fungus or dermatophyte) or itraconazole (generally used for yeast or mould infections). These tablets can be taken continuously or with breaks between treatments. In continuous treatment, the medication is usually taken once a day for three months at a dose of 250 mg. It is important to note that these pills can cause side effects and interact with other medications, so it is crucial to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking. Additionally, these antifungal pills may not be suitable for individuals with liver or kidney disease, or for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
In some cases, oral medications may be combined with topical treatments, such as nail polishes or creams, to enhance their effectiveness. Prescription nail polishes containing antifungal ingredients like ciclopirox or amorolfine can be painted onto the affected toenail daily. It may take six months or more before your nails start to look better when using these nail polishes. While prescription nail polishes are less effective than oral medications, they are a good option for individuals who cannot take oral antifungals.
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Home remedies
While medical treatments are the only known methods to effectively treat nail fungus, home remedies may help clear up symptoms. However, there is little evidence that home remedies are 100% effective in clearing up a nail infection. They also don't work any faster than medical treatments.
Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment that contains camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which have antifungal properties. Apply a small amount of VapoRub to the affected area at least once a day.
Snakeroot extract
Snakeroot (Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is an antifungal made from plants in the sunflower family. A 2008 study showed that the remedy is effective against toenail fungus, comparable to the antifungal medication ciclopirox.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the tea tree, a plant native to Australia. It has been used traditionally as an antiseptic and has been researched for use on other skin conditions like acne. Apply tea tree oil to the affected nail twice a day for six months. The cure rate for toenail fungus was found to be comparable to using the cream clotrimazole.
Oregano oil
Apply oregano oil to the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab. Some people use oregano oil and tea tree oil together, but both products are potent and may cause irritation or allergic reactions, so use with caution.
Ozonized oils
Ozonized oils are oils like olive oil and sunflower oil that are "injected" with ozone gas. Research from 2020 suggests that exposure to low concentrations of ozone gas for a short duration can inactivate many organisms, including fungi.
Listerine mouthwash
Listerine mouthwash contains menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Soak the affected foot in a basin of amber-colored Listerine for 30 minutes daily.
Nail scraping
While not considered 100% effective, nail scraping works by gradually removing parts of the affected nail every day over the course of 2 to 3 weeks. First, wash and dry the affected nail. Then, apply an over-the-counter (OTC) urea paste and cover it with a bandage for 24 hours before scraping the nail.
It's important to note that even with successful treatment, nail fungus can return. To prevent reoccurrence, be sure to finish any medication or remedy as directed, even if your nails start to look better.
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Laser treatment
Toenail fungus is a fungal infection called onychomycosis, or tinea unguium. It is caused by an overgrowth of fungi that are often found on the body together with other bacteria. The fungi can enter through cracks in the toenails and thrive in warm, moist environments, such as inside shoes. Toenail fungus causes thickened, separating, and discoloured nails.
There are several types of laser treatments available, including CO2 laser therapy, which has achieved the best overall results. The Ti:sapphire laser, for example, delivers a substantial amount of energy per pulse while minimising excessive heating of the surrounding tissue. The laser is pulsed at selected wavelengths to minimise heat on the skin and reduce the risk of side effects.
The process of laser treatment for nail fungus typically takes about 30 minutes, and most people will not feel any discomfort. There is usually no recovery time, and people can return to their usual activities immediately. However, it can take about two months to notice the procedure's results, and it may take multiple treatments to completely remove the nail fungus. The new, healthy nail will grow in over time, and most people will see noticeable improvement. It may take three to 18 months of consistent treatment for laser therapy to be fully effective.
It is important to find a board-certified dermatologist with specialised training and experience in laser toenail fungus treatment. They will be able to advise on the type of laser used and its general success rate.
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Surgery
After the surgery, patients must keep their arm or leg elevated above the level of their heart for 48 hours to help manage pain and swelling. They will also need to change their bandages regularly and may be given antifungal medicine to apply to their nail bed to kill any remaining fungus. The nail bed typically takes about two to three weeks to heal, and doctors advise patients on when they can resume normal physical activity.
Fingernails usually grow back within six months, while toenails can take up to 18 months or longer. The regrown nail may not have a healthy appearance, even if the infection has cleared. Nail fungus can also return, and preventative measures should be taken.
While surgery is an option for nail fungus removal, it is not a common procedure. Other treatments, such as antifungal pills and topical medications, are usually explored first due to the invasiveness and lengthy recovery time associated with surgery.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the type of medication and the severity of the infection. Oral antifungal medications are more effective than topical treatments, which must be applied daily and can take up to 12 weeks to work. Even with medication, it can take several months for the nail to grow back and return to its normal state.
No known home remedies can fully clear up a fungal nail infection. Prescription medications are the only treatments that can cure it. Laser therapy is an alternative treatment option that may help destroy the fungus, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness and safety.
A fingernail typically grows out in 4 to 6 months, while a toenail can take 12 to 18 months. During this time, it's important to continue any prescribed medication to prevent the fungus from returning.
