Sophia Delgado
Fingernail fungus is a common infection that can cause unsightly and painful discolouration, thickening, and distortion of the nail. While it can take several months for the nail to grow back to a healthier state, there are a variety of treatments available to help speed up the process. Prescription medications and antifungal treatments are the most effective methods to cure fingernail fungus, but natural remedies such as tea tree oil, oregano oil, and Vicks VapoRub may also help relieve symptoms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Treatment | Medical treatments are the only known methods to effectively treat nail fungus. Prescription oral antifungals, such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or fluconazole (Diflucan), are traditionally used to treat toenail fungus and will usually resolve it faster and more effectively. Antifungal medication comes in tablets or a special paint you apply directly to the nail. |
| Symptoms | Nail fungus typically appears as discoloration and thickening of the nail, and crumbling edges. Toenails are more frequently affected than fingernails. |
| Prevention | Keep nails short, clean, and well-trimmed. Wear well-fitting shoes made of natural materials and clean cotton socks. |
| Home remedies | Vicks VapoRub, tea tree oil, oregano oil, ozonized oils (such as olive oil and sunflower oil), vinegar, Listerine, and grapefruit seed extract. |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Prescription medication
Fingernail fungus can take several months to clear up, and it may be several more before the affected nail grows back. Prescription medication is the only treatment that can cure it. If you think you have a fingernail fungus, it is important to learn about your treatment options and how you may be able to prevent the fungi from spreading to other nails.
Your doctor may recommend antifungal pills for more aggressive treatment. These pills have a higher cure rate than topical treatments and work more quickly. Taking antifungal pills for two months can cure an infection under the fingernails, while toenail infections usually require three months of treatment. Antifungal pills can cause side effects, and it is important to take them for the full course of treatment to prevent the infection from returning.
In addition to oral and topical treatments, your doctor may recommend combination therapy, which involves taking antifungal pills and applying medication to the nails. This approach can be more effective than using either treatment alone. It is important to remember that even with successful treatment, the nail may not look the same as it did before the infection.
Trimming Toddler Fingernails: A Safe and Easy Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Natural remedies
While there are no known home remedies that can completely eliminate nail fungus, natural treatments can relieve symptoms and may be more effective than prescription medications in treating mild-to-moderate toenail fungus. Here are some natural remedies that can be used to treat fingernail and toenail fungus:
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties and is promoted as a natural nail fungus treatment. It can be painted directly onto the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab.
Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub contains thymol, menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil, which may help get rid of nail fungus. Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area at least once a day. Put on a sock to keep the product in place.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil contains thymol, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Apply the oil to the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab.
Clove Oil
Clove oil has been found to be effective in treating onychomycosis caused by Candida albicans in people with compromised immune systems.
Listerine Mouthwash
The gold-coloured Listerine Original Antiseptic Mouthwash contains thymol, a plant compound with antifungal properties. To use it as a treatment, fill a basin with Listerine and soak your feet and nails in the liquid for 15 minutes, two to three times a week.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar fights fungus and can be used as a foot soak. Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts warm water and soak your feet for at least 10 minutes, or longer if desired.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can help prevent fungal growth. It can be used as a foot soak or made into a paste to apply to the affected area.
Henna Leaves
Research suggests that henna leaves may be beneficial in fighting against the fungus Trichophyton rubrum, the most frequent cause of onychomycosis.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel contains phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals that can help fight fungal infections and soothe inflammation. Apply the gel to the infected nail to stop the infection from growing.
Garlic
Garlic has significant antifungal effects and contains an array of fungus-fighting phytochemicals. It can be combined with coconut oil and olive oil and rubbed on the affected area daily.
Understanding Your Cat's Nail-Biting Behavior
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Laser treatment
There are currently two types of laser devices: blue light lasers and carbon dioxide lasers (CO2 lasers). Both have proven benefits in treating toenail fungus infections. CO2 lasers, in particular, have shown promising results in clinical studies. A 2019 meta-analysis found that laser therapy can be effective and safe, with an overall success rate of about 63%.
Before undergoing laser treatment, it is recommended to consult a board-certified podiatrist to determine if it is a suitable treatment option for you. A small sample of the infected nail may also be taken and tested to confirm the presence of a fungal infection.
Drugs in Finger Nails: Detection Times and Methods
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$16.99
Non-surgical nail removal
Fingernail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common type of infection that causes discolouration, thickening, and distortion of the nail. While toenails are more frequently affected than fingernails, it is possible for the infection to occur in the fingernails as well.
In addition to medical treatments, there are some home remedies that can be considered as complementary to medical treatment. One such method is nail scraping, which involves using an over-the-counter (OTC) kit with a urea paste to soften the nail and a scraping device. However, it is important to note that this method is not considered 100% effective in clearing up the infection and may take 2 to 3 weeks to gradually remove the affected nail.
Regardless of the treatment method chosen, it is important to keep in mind that the fingernail may not look exactly the same as it did prior to the infection. It can take several months for the nail to grow back to a healthier state, and in some cases, it may take up to 6 to 18 months for the nail to return to normal. Additionally, laboratory testing of a nail or skin sample may be necessary to confirm that the fungus is truly gone.
Exploring the Intriguing Depth of Fingernails
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Antifungal medication
Fingernail fungus is a common type of infection that develops when fungi enter and spread in your nails. It is characterised by discolouration, thickening, and distortion of the nail, and can cause pain and discomfort. While toenails are more frequently affected than fingernails, it is still a common issue for many people.
If you prefer a treatment with fewer side effects, your doctor may suggest trying antifungal nail paint instead. This treatment involves painting the medication directly onto the affected nail. While this method is generally considered less effective than tablets because it may not reach the deeper layers of the nail, it usually does not cause any side effects. It is important to remember to use the nail paint as often as prescribed, as this is the most difficult part of this treatment.
For more aggressive treatment of severe or troublesome fungal infections, your doctor may prescribe antifungal pills. These pills have a higher cure rate and work more quickly than medicine applied topically to the nails. Taking antifungal pills for two to three months can cure a fingernail fungal infection, while toenail infections typically require three months of treatment. However, it is important to note that antifungal pills can cause side effects and must be taken consistently for several months to ensure the infection has completely cleared up. If you stop taking the medication too early, the infection may return.
The Science of Fingernails: How Do They Work?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
A fungal nail infection usually appears as a white, brown, or yellow discolouration of the nail. It may also cause the nail to thicken, distort, or become crumbly and brittle.
Treatment options include oral antifungal medications, topical antifungal medications, laser therapy, and nail removal.
While there is limited evidence supporting their effectiveness, some home remedies that have been suggested include tea tree oil, oregano oil, ozonized oils (such as olive oil and sunflower oil), Vicks VapoRub, and nail scraping.
It typically takes 4 to 6 months for fingernails to grow back after treatment, and 12 to 18 months for toenails.
To prevent a fungal nail infection from returning or spreading, it is important to keep your nails short, clean, and dry.
