Sophia Delgado
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition that can affect anyone, causing the nail to become thick, discoloured, and brittle. While it is primarily a cosmetic concern, it can be challenging to cure and may require medical attention if left untreated. Treatment options range from topical creams to oral medications and, in severe cases, even nail removal. But does removing the nail cure the fungus? While it can help get rid of the infection and allow a new, healthy nail to grow, it is typically a last resort, and antifungal therapy is often required post-removal to prevent recurrence.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Treatment goals | Get rid of the fungus and restore the nail |
| Treatment plan | Tailored to each patient's health, other medical conditions, medications, how much nail is affected, and the type of fungus |
| Diagnosis | Examination of fingernails and toenails, checking for color change, buildup, and other signs; microscopic examination of nail samples |
| Treatment options | Topical antifungal medications, oral antifungal medications, laser treatment, nail removal |
| Nail removal procedure | Performed in a doctor's office or clinic under local anesthesia; the nail is removed chemically or surgically |
| Nail removal recovery | A new healthy nail can take more than a year to grow; antifungal therapy is necessary to prevent the recurrence of fungus |
| Home remedies | Soaking feet in apple cider vinegar or Listerine, applying Vicks VapoRub, using mentholated salve or snakeroot extract |
| Prevention | Disinfect bathroom tiles, wear socks and shoes, avoid going barefoot, use shower shoes in public places |
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What You'll Learn
Laser treatment
During the procedure, the laser device emits light to destroy fungal cells under the nail. Most patients only experience a mild warming sensation and report no discomfort. The treatment does not require any downtime, but maintaining good foot hygiene is crucial to prevent reinfection.
The cost of laser treatment for nail fungus typically ranges from $200 to $1,200 per session, depending on various factors. These factors include the severity of the infection, the number of nails treated, and the technology used. Most insurance companies do not cover the cost as it is often considered a cosmetic procedure. However, clinics may offer financing options or payment plans to make the treatment more accessible.
While laser treatment shows promising results, more research is needed to assess its effectiveness fully. Some experts believe that light penetrates the nail and absorbs the fungus, causing damage or death to the fungus cells. Laser therapy may be a more suitable option for certain individuals due to the risk of side effects associated with medication use. It is also beneficial for those with diabetes, older individuals with drug intolerance, and patients with liver and kidney problems.
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Oral medications
Terbinafine is a common oral medication used to treat nail fungus. It is available as a tablet or oral granules, and can be taken with or without food, although it is best to take the granules with food. The typical dosage for adults is 250 milligrams once a day for 12 weeks, although this can vary depending on the severity and location of the infection. For example, for athlete's foot, the recommended dosage is 250 milligrams once a day for 2 to 6 weeks. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and maintain a constant amount of the medication in the blood by taking it at the same time every day.
Itraconazole is another oral medication used to treat nail fungus. The typical dosage is once a day for 6 to 12 weeks. However, it may cause side effects such as headaches, stomach upset, and respiratory infection.
Posaconazole is a newer medication used to treat serious fungal infections, but it can be used off-label to treat toenail fungus. It is available as a pill or liquid suspension and is typically taken once a day for 3 to 6 months. Side effects may include diarrhea, fever, and nausea.
It is important to note that oral medications may not be suitable for everyone. For example, people with liver or kidney disease, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, may not be able to take antifungal tablets. It is crucial to consult a doctor or dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual needs and considerations.
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Topical treatments
Topical antifungal medications work to kill the fungi on the surface of the nail and prevent its growth. These medications can be in the form of creams, solutions, or nail lacquers. Your doctor may prescribe a suitable antifungal skin cream or solution, or you may be able to purchase over-the-counter antifungal creams and lotions from your local drugstore. However, it is important to note that over-the-counter options may not be strong enough to eradicate the fungus completely.
Urea cream or ointment is another topical treatment option. These work by softening thick nails, making it easier for the antifungal medication to penetrate and reach the deeper layers of the fungus. Your dermatologist may prescribe a urea-based ointment or cream, which you should apply as directed.
In addition to prescription and over-the-counter treatments, there are some home remedies that have been anecdotally reported to be effective in managing toenail fungus. These include soaking your feet in a solution of apple cider vinegar or Listerine antiseptic mouthwash, or applying Vick's VapoRub to the affected nail. While these treatments may not work for everyone, they are generally considered safe to try.
It is important to remember that topical treatments for nail fungus may take a long time to show results, and side effects such as redness, swelling, or stinging may occur. If you experience any side effects or if your condition does not improve, consult your doctor or dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment recommendations.
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Home remedies
Before trying any home remedies, it is recommended to consult a doctor or podiatrist to create an effective treatment plan. Those with diabetes or a weakened immune system should not use home remedies for toenail fungus.
- Tea tree oil has natural antifungal and antiseptic properties. A study found that 100% tea tree oil applied twice daily cleared nail fungus in 18% of participants after six months, with noticeable improvement in 56% of cases. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut or olive oil). Apply this mixture directly to the affected nail using a cotton swab, repeating twice daily for several weeks.
- Apple cider vinegar is another natural remedy that may help treat toenail fungus.
- Garlic has antifungal properties and may help treat mild nail infections.
- Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment designed for cough suppression, but its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help treat toenail fungus. A 2011 study found that it had a "positive clinical effect" in treating toenail fungus. Apply a small amount to the affected area at least once a day.
- Snakeroot (Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is an antifungal made from plants in the sunflower family. A 2008 study showed that it was effective against toenail fungus.
In addition to these remedies, it is important to practice good foot hygiene, including washing and drying the feet daily, especially between the toes. Trimming nails properly and choosing breathable footwear can also help prevent and treat toenail fungus.
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When to see a doctor
If you suspect that you have a fungal nail infection, it is important to seek medical advice. A pharmacist can examine your nails and recommend over-the-counter antifungal treatments. If these treatments are ineffective, you should consult your doctor or a dermatologist, who will examine your nails and determine the best course of action.
It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible if your nail has turned brown or black, if it suddenly hurts, or if it pulls away from the nail bed. Additionally, if you have diabetes and notice any changes in the appearance of your toenails, prompt medical attention is crucial.
Your doctor may prescribe topical treatments, such as antifungal creams or solutions, or oral medications like antifungal pills. In some cases, they may recommend nail removal, especially if other treatments are unsuccessful or if you are experiencing severe pain. This procedure can be performed in the doctor's office or clinic, and local anaesthesia is typically used to numb the area.
It is worth noting that toenail removal is usually considered a last resort, and it must be followed by antifungal therapy to prevent the fungus from returning as the nail regrows. Removing the nail provides an opportunity for a new, healthy nail to grow, but this process can take more than a year.
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Frequently asked questions
Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a fungal nail infection that causes the nail to become thick, discoloured, and brittle.
Treatment options for nail fungus include topical antifungal creams, solutions, or lacquers, oral antifungal medications, mentholated salve, and snakeroot extract. In more severe cases, nail removal may be recommended, followed by antifungal therapy to prevent the fungus from returning.
It is recommended to see a doctor or podiatrist if you have diabetes, an immune disorder, or poor circulation in your legs, or if there is bleeding, swelling, or pain around the affected nail(s). It is also important to seek medical attention if home treatments are ineffective, as fungal nail infections can worsen over time.
Yes, it is important to follow nail removal with antifungal therapy to prevent the fungus from returning as the nail regrows. Additionally, proper nail care and good hygiene practices can help prevent future nail fungus infections.
