Noah Sinclair
Fingernail fungus is a common condition that can cause discolouration, thickening, and distortion of the nail. It is caused by a fungal infection that can enter through small cracks in the nail or skin and spread. While it tends to develop gradually, if left untreated, it can lead to chronic nail problems. There are several treatment options available, including oral and topical antifungal medications, laser therapy, and nail removal in severe cases. In addition, there are complementary home remedies and self-help measures that can be considered to manage the condition and prevent further infections.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Medical treatments | The only known methods to effectively treat nail fungus |
| Home remedies | May help clear up symptoms but are not 100% effective |
| Nail scraping | Can help remove an active infection by gradually removing parts of the affected nail |
| Oral antifungal medications | Effective but can cause side effects |
| Topical antifungals | Do not cause side effects but may not be effective for serious infections |
| Laser therapy | May need several treatments over the course of a year and is not covered by NHS |
| Nail removal | A last resort that can take at least 1 year for a healthy new nail to grow back |
| Symptoms | Discoloration, thickening, distortion, pain or discomfort, brittle or crumbly nails |
| Prevention | Keep feet clean and dry, trim nails, sanitize nail tools, treat athlete's foot, moisturize hands and feet |
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What You'll Learn
Home remedies for finger nail fungus
Fingernail fungus can be a stubborn condition to treat, and medical treatments are the only known methods to effectively tackle it. However, there are some home remedies that may help alleviate the symptoms. Here are some natural remedies that you can try at home to treat a fingernail fungal infection:
Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment that contains active ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and thymol, which have antifungal properties. A 2011 study found that regular and long-term use of VapoRub can be beneficial in treating fingernail fungus. To use this treatment, apply a small amount of the ointment to the affected area at least once a day.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is another natural remedy with antifungal properties due to its thymol content. It is sometimes combined with tea tree oil for enhanced effectiveness. However, combining these oils can increase the risk of an allergic reaction or irritation. Always do a patch test before applying it to the affected area.
Ozonized Oils
Oils like olive oil and sunflower oil, infused with ozone layer gases, are also potential treatments for fingernail fungus. These oils are generally safe to use and can be applied directly to the skin or nails without dilution.
Listerine Mouthwash
The gold-coloured Listerine Original Antiseptic Mouthwash contains thymol, which has been shown to have antifungal effects. To use this treatment, fill a basin with Listerine and soak your affected nails for 15 minutes, two to three times a week.
Garlic
Garlic has significant antifungal properties and contains an array of fungus-fighting phytochemicals. You can create a cream by combining fresh garlic cloves with coconut oil and olive oil. Apply this mixture to the affected area daily and store it in the fridge.
While these home remedies may provide some relief, it is important to note that there is currently no evidence that any home remedy can completely cure a fingernail fungal infection. If you are experiencing a fingernail fungal infection, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Medical treatments for finger nail fungus
Fingernail fungus is a common type of infection caused by fungi entering and spreading in the nails. Toenails are more frequently affected than fingernails, but fingernails can also become infected. The infection causes the nail to become discoloured, thickened, and distorted, and in some cases, it may cause pain or discomfort.
If you suspect you have a fingernail fungal infection, it is important to see a doctor or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Treatment for fingernail fungus typically involves medical interventions, and there are several options available. Here are some of the medical treatments for fingernail fungus:
Topical Antifungals
Topical antifungals are medications that are applied directly to the affected nail(s). These can be in the form of creams, ointments, paints, or gels. While these treatments may be effective for mild infections, they may not penetrate deep enough into the nail to cure more severe cases. It is important to follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider and use these treatments as often as prescribed. Topical antifungals typically need to be used for several months to ensure the infection clears.
Oral Antifungals
For more aggressive treatment, your doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications in the form of pills or tablets. These medications have a higher cure rate than topical treatments and work more quickly. Oral antifungals can clear a fingernail fungal infection in about two months of treatment. However, it is important to note that these medications can cause side effects and may require regular lab tests to check for potential issues like liver damage.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is an emerging treatment option for fingernail fungus. This involves using high doses of light energy to destroy the fungus. Early research suggests that laser therapy may be effective, but more studies are needed to establish its safety and efficacy. Laser therapy may need to be repeated several times and can be expensive.
Nail Removal
In severe cases, your doctor may recommend removing the infected nail entirely. This allows for a new, healthy nail to grow in its place. However, the new nail may also become infected, and proper wound care is necessary after nail removal.
While there are medical treatments available for fingernail fungus, it is important to remember that these infections can be stubborn and may take time to clear up. Prevention is always better than cure, so maintaining good general hygiene and nail care can help reduce the risk of developing fingernail fungus.
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Preventing finger nail fungus
Fingernail fungus can be a chronic condition that may be challenging to treat. Prescription medications and medical treatments are the most effective ways to address this issue. However, preventing fingernail fungus is equally important to avoid the hassle of treatment and potential side effects. Here are some instructive tips to help you prevent fingernail fungus:
Keep Nails Clean and Trimmed: Maintaining good nail hygiene is essential. Keep your fingernails and toenails clean and trimmed short. Straight-across trimming is recommended. Clean nails are less likely to trap dirt and provide a less favourable environment for fungi to thrive.
Footwear and Sock Hygiene: Fungi thrive in dark, warm, and moist environments. Therefore, it is crucial to wear socks that wick away moisture. If your feet tend to sweat a lot, change your socks once or twice a day. Let your feet breathe by taking off your shoes whenever possible. Additionally, antifungal powders or sprays can be used on your feet and inside your shoes to prevent fungal growth.
Disinfect Nail Tools: If you visit nail salons, ensure they disinfect their tools after each client. Alternatively, you can bring your own file and clippers to minimise the risk of infection.
Avoid Walking Barefoot in Public Spaces: Fungi can spread easily in places like gym showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms. Avoid walking barefoot in such areas to lower your chances of contracting a fungal infection.
Hand and Foot Hygiene: Wash your hands and feet regularly with soap, ensuring you clean between your fingers and toes. Good hand and foot hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Avoid Cutting Cuticles: Ask your manicurist not to cut your cuticles, as this can create tiny breaks in the skin that allow germs and fungi to enter.
By following these preventive measures, you can effectively reduce your chances of contracting fingernail fungus. However, if you do develop an infection, consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Diagnosing finger nail fungus
Fingernail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection caused by various fungi that live in the environment and enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. While toenails are more frequently affected than fingernails, it is still important to be able to recognise and diagnose a fungal nail infection.
Fungal nail infections usually develop slowly, and the symptoms can be subtle at first. The most common type of fungal nail infection is distal subungual onychomycosis, which can develop in both fingernails and toenails. This infection causes the outer edge of the nail to have a jagged appearance with white and/or yellow streaks. As the infection progresses, the nail may thicken and become difficult to trim. It may also start to curl up or down or loosen from the nail bed. The nail could become brittle and crumble when touched.
If you suspect you have a fungal nail infection, you should see your doctor. They may be able to diagnose the infection based on the appearance of the nail and your reported symptoms. However, to confirm the diagnosis, they may take a small sample of the infected nail to send for laboratory testing. This will definitively determine whether you have a fungal infection.
Once the diagnosis of a fungal nail infection is confirmed, treatment options are available. These include oral antifungal medications, topical antifungal solutions, and laser therapy. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations and complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infection clears up completely.
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Types of finger nail fungus
Fingernail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition caused by various types of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. It is similar to athlete's foot but affects the nails instead of the skin on the bottom of the feet or between the toes. While it is not life-threatening, it constitutes a public health concern due to its prevalence, estimated to affect about 10% of the US population.
There are four main types of fingernail fungal infections, each with distinct characteristics and causes:
- Distal or Lateral Subungual Onychomycosis: This is the most common type of fingernail fungus, caused by a dermatophyte. It starts in the nail bed, underneath the nail, and presents as a yellowish area spreading from the edges of the nail towards the center, eventually causing the nail to separate from the nail bed.
- Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis: This type is relatively rare and primarily affects individuals with immune disorders, such as HIV. It is a yeast infection that manifests as white spots in the center of the nail bed, close to the cuticle, and gradually moves outward as the nail grows.
- Candidal Onychomycosis: Caused by yeast, this infection often affects the fingernails, particularly the middle finger. It is more common in women and is associated with swollen and inflamed skin around the nails, which may even lead to complete nail loss.
- Onycholysis: Onycholysis refers to the painless separation of the toe or fingernail from the nail bed. It occurs gradually over time and can result from underlying health conditions or injuries to the nail.
It is important to note that nail fungus can affect the health, strength, and appearance of fingernails. Therefore, if you suspect nail fungus, it is recommended to seek medical attention. Treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications, laser therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical removal of the nail to allow a healthy one to grow in its place. Maintaining good nail hygiene, such as keeping your nails trimmed, dry, and clean, can help prevent fingernail fungus.
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Frequently asked questions
Fingernail fungus can be covered up using nail paint or nail polish. However, it is important to note that this is not a treatment for the fungus and medical treatments are the only known methods to effectively treat nail fungus. If you are looking to cover up the fungus, consider using antifungal nail paint, which can help treat the infection while also covering it up.
There are several at-home treatments for fingernail fungus that can be considered as complements to medical treatment. These include:
- Nail scraping: Using an over-the-counter (OTC) kit with urea paste to soften the nail and a scraping device to gradually remove parts of the affected nail every day over the course of 2 to 3 weeks.
- Antifungal creams or ointments: Filing and soaking nails in warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying medicated antifungal creams or ointments.
- Nail grooming: Keeping nails trimmed and short to reduce pain and pressure from debris and nail buildup.
To prevent the spread of fingernail fungus, it is important to practice good nail hygiene. This includes keeping your hands and feet clean and dry, trimming your nails, and sanitizing nail scissors and clippers. Additionally, it is important to treat any underlying conditions such as athlete's foot, as the fungus can spread to the nail bed.
