Toenail fungus, a common condition that can cause nails to become discolored, thick, and sometimes painful, is often a persistent problem. If you’re looking for ways on How To Get Rid Of Toenail Fungus, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the diagnosis, various treatment options, from medications to home remedies, and what you can expect on your journey to healthier nails.
Understanding and Diagnosing Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is typically caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, like inside shoes. It’s important to confirm that your nail issue is indeed fungal, as other conditions like psoriasis can mimic its appearance.
Diagnosis is crucial before starting any treatment. Your healthcare provider can properly identify toenail fungus through:
- Physical Examination: A visual inspection of your nails is the first step.
- Nail Sampling: To confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific fungus, your doctor might take nail clippings or scrape debris from under your nail. These samples are then sent to a lab for analysis. This step is important to rule out other conditions and ensure the right treatment approach.
Effective Treatment Options for Toenail Fungus
Treatment for toenail fungus varies depending on the severity of the infection. Sometimes, mild cases might improve with self-care, but persistent or severe infections often require medical intervention. It’s important to remember that getting rid of toenail fungus can take time, often months, and recurrence is common even after successful treatment.
Prescription Medications: A Stronger Approach
For more stubborn cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe antifungal medications, either oral or topical.
Oral Antifungal Drugs
Often considered the first line of defense for moderate to severe toenail fungus, oral antifungal drugs work from the inside out to eliminate the infection.
- Itraconazole (Sporanox) and Terbinafine (Lamisil) are common oral medications. They help new, healthy nails grow as they gradually replace the infected part.
- Treatment Duration: Typically, you’ll take these medications daily for 6 to 12 weeks.
- Patience is Key: Full results aren’t immediate. It can take four months or even longer after finishing medication for the infection to be completely eradicated, as the nail needs to grow out fully.
- Considerations: Oral antifungals may have side effects, including rash and potential liver damage. They can also interact with other medications. Regular blood tests might be necessary to monitor liver function. These medications might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with liver conditions, congestive heart failure, or those taking certain other drugs. Always discuss your medical history with your doctor.
Medicated Nail Polish
For milder infections, or as a supplementary treatment, medicated nail polish can be an option.
- Ciclopirox (Penlac) is an antifungal nail lacquer that you apply directly to the infected nails and surrounding skin once daily.
- Application Process: After seven days, you clean the layers with alcohol and reapply.
- Long-Term Commitment: Treatment can be lengthy, potentially lasting almost a year of daily application.
Medicated Nail Creams
Antifungal creams are another topical approach to get rid of nail fungus.
- Efinaconazole (Jublia) and Tavaborole (Kerydin) are prescription antifungal creams.
- Enhanced Absorption: These creams are often most effective when applied after soaking the nails. Thinning the nail can further improve medication penetration.
- Nail Thinning Techniques: You can use nonprescription urea-containing lotions to soften nails or have your healthcare provider thin the nail surface with a file (debridement).
- Potential Side Effects: Skin rash can occur as a side effect.
Surgical Options for Severe Cases
In rare, severe cases, surgical intervention might be considered.
- Temporary Nail Removal: Your doctor might suggest temporarily removing the nail to apply antifungal medication directly to the nail bed, treating the infection underneath more effectively.
- Permanent Nail Removal: In the most extreme cases, and least common, surgery to permanently remove the nail and root is an option. This is typically reserved for very painful or persistent infections that haven’t responded to other treatments.
Lifestyle Adjustments and Home Remedies
Alongside medical treatments, certain lifestyle adjustments and home remedies can support the healing process and help manage toenail fungus.
- Nonprescription Antifungal Treatments: Over-the-counter antifungal creams and ointments containing terbinafine (Lamisil) are available. For white markings on the nail surface, filing them off before applying medication may be beneficial. However, recurrence is common with nonprescription treatments alone.
- Proper Nail Care: Regularly trim and thin your nails. This reduces pressure and pain and allows topical medications to penetrate deeper. Urea-containing creams can soften thick nails before trimming.
- Foot Hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes. Change socks regularly, especially if they become damp. Choose breathable footwear.
- Avoid Nail Polish and Artificial Nails: These can trap moisture and worsen the condition.
Alternative Medicine Considerations
While scientific evidence is still developing, some alternative therapies are explored for toenail fungus.
- Tea Tree Oil: Some studies suggest tea tree oil has antifungal properties and is used by some as a topical treatment.
- Biotin Supplements: Biotin, a nutritional supplement, is sometimes suggested to strengthen brittle nails, although its direct effect on fungal infections is not well-established. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While home care and over-the-counter treatments can be helpful for mild cases, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if:
- Your condition doesn’t improve with self-care.
- You experience pain or discomfort.
- The infection appears to be spreading or worsening.
- You have underlying health conditions like diabetes or poor circulation.
Preparing for your doctor’s appointment by listing your symptoms, medications, and questions will help you have a productive discussion and get the best advice on how to effectively get rid of toenail fungus and maintain healthy nails.
