Which Treatment Is the Best for Nail Fungus?
There are many types of treatments for nail fungus. Some people use over-the-counter creams, ointments, or powders while others may need to see a doctor. Which treatment is best for you depends on the type of nail fungus and your symptoms.
1. How To Treat Nail Fungus: Nail Fungus Ointments
If you are experiencing nail fungus, one option is to use an ointment that will help to dry out the fungus and prevent it from spreading. You can also try using a topical cream or gel that will help to kill off the fungus. If you experience any pain or discomfort, you may want to
Best Ointment: Fungi Nail Anti-Fungal Ointment
If you have nail fungus, using an ointment can be a helpful way to treat the condition. Several types of ointment are available, including those designed to kill fungus and those that help relieve symptoms. Some over-the-counter ointments also work well for treating nail fungus.
2. How To Treat Nail Fungus: Nail Fungus Creams
Topical creams and medications are among the most effective ways to treat nail fungus.
If your nails are severely infected or if surgery is required, over-the-counter (OTC) products and home remedies may be necessary in addition to prescription drugs.
You should always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any kind of treatment plan for nail fungus, as different individuals will respond differently to various treatments.
- Whether you choose topical creams or medications, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully so that you don’t end up with another infection.
- Topical treatments like antifungal cream or nail lacquer are among the most effective ways to treat nail fungus.
- If your nails are severely infected or if surgery is required, over-the-counter (OTC) products and home remedies may be necessary in addition to prescription drugs.
- You should always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any kind of treatment plan for nail fungus, as different individuals will respond differently to various treatments.
3. How To Treat Nail Fungus: Nail Fungus Over The Counter Treatments
These products include ointments, creams, and oral medications. They are among the most effective topical treatments for toenail fungus and can be used in conjunction with other home remedies or OTC products to increase their effectiveness.
4. How To Treat Nail Fungus: Laser Treatments
Laser treatment is a potentially effective way to treat more severe cases of onychomycosis where surgical removal is necessary. Treatment with lasers may cause some minor side effects such as burning and redness but is typically very successful at treating infection and curing the nails.
5. How To Treat Nail Fungus: Nail Fungus Prescription Treatments
Prescription medicines are available to treat nail fungus, although some of these medicines can have serious side effects. These include oral antifungals such as terbinafine and itraconazole. These medicines can cause liver damage in some people. Another medicine that is sometimes used is amphotericin B, which is an antifungal medicine that can be given by injection.
Oral and topical antifungals
Topical antifungals are applied to the nails to treat nail fungus. Several antifungals for nail fungus have FDA approval, including clotrimazole, efinaconazole, and terbinafine. Drugs are evaluated based on a complete cure of 48 weeks.
Oral antifungals are taken by mouth to treat nail fungus. These drugs include itraconazole and fluconazole. Drugs are evaluated based on a complete cure of 48 weeks.
6. How To Treat Nail Fungus: Nail Fungus Home Treatments
Home remedies for nail fungus include using vinegar, tea tree oil, and baking soda. You can also try over-the-counter medications. Be sure to see your doctor if the fungus does not go away.
7. How To Treat Nail Fungus: Nail Fungus Surgery
Nail fungus surgery involves removing the fungal infection from the nail.
Fungal cutaneous treatment (FCT) is a type of surgical procedure that removes the fungal infection and any damaged skin around the nails, then applies a topical cream or ointment to help heal the wound.
Surgical debridement is a type of surgery that removes dead or dying cells and debris from beneath the nail, which may help to cure or improve symptoms of nail fungus.
How To Treat Nail Fung
If you have nail fungus, there are a variety of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications that can help.
One common type of OTC medication is clotrimazole (FungiCure Intensive). This medicine treats the fungus on the skin around the nail bed, not the actual nail fungus itself. Urea can help to soften and improve the appearance of brittle, yellow nails, but it does not treat the nail fungus.
Other potential treatments for nail fungus include topical creams such as tolnaftate (Fungi-Nail, Opti-Nail) and urea (Kerasol). These creams work by killing the fungal cells on the skin. However, these treatments do not always work and they may also require several applications over a period of weeks or months in order to be effective.
If you are experiencing severe cases of nail fungus or if it is causing significant pain or discomfort, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication such as clotrimazole, terbinafine hydrochloride, fluconazole nitrate, or itraconazole hydrochloride. Oral medications are often more effective than topical treatments and they do not require repeated applications.
More About Nail Fungus Treatments
There is no “best” over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for nail fungus, but OTC products are not very effective at treating the hard nail bed. Prescription medicines are more effective for treating nail fungus. There are many antifungal products available over-the-counter: Effective antifungal products like creams or sprays for athlete’s foot can be found over-the-counter. Treatment can take months, but not all people need to be treated. In many people, nail fungus may not cause any long-term effects.
- There is no “best” over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for nail fungus: OTC products are not very effective at treating the hard nail bed.
- Prescription medicines are more effective for treating nail fungus: Prescription medicines can be taken by mouth or applied to the nail.
- There are many antifungal products available over-the-counter: Effective antifungal products like creams or sprays for athlete’s foot can be found over-the-counter.
- Treatment can take months, but not all people need to be treated: Not everyone needs treatment for fungal nails infections
- In many people, nail fungus may not cause any long-term effects: While the nail fungus may not fully clear up, in many people it may not cause any long-term effects.
What to Look for in a Toenail Fungus Treatment
Nail fungus is an infection of the nail that can cause symptoms such as redness, scaling, and pain. Treatment depends on the type of fungus and may include topical medications, oral medications, or surgery. Toenail fungus may be difficult to treat, but regular visits to a dermatologist can help keep it under control.
What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus is a condition caused by a fungus growing on the nails. It is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi live on the dead tissue of the nails, hair, and skin. They are usually found in warm, moist places such as showers or swimming pools.
The fungi can cause the nails to become thick, brittle, and deformed. They can also cause the nails to separate from the nail bed. The infection can be painful and make it hard to walk or wear shoes.
How to Prevent Nail Fungi?
Step 1: Practice Good Hygiene
To prevent nail fungus, it is important to take simple steps such as regularly washing your hands and keeping nails clean. If nail fungus is severe, treatment may include tablets and professional medical care. If the nail is filed off, it’s important to ensure good hygiene and disinfect the area. Lasers haven’t been proven to work, so people have to pay for them themselves.
Step 2: Keep Your Nails Clean and Dry
Clean and dry the area thoroughly.
Apply a nail fungus cream to the nail bed once a day for 28 days.
Step 3: Trim Your Nails Regularly
If you have nail fungus, regularly trim your nails to help prevent the infection from spreading. If you skip a trim, nails can become long and this can make the fungus grow more easily.
Trim your nails every week while taking ciclopirox topical solution, which is only effective if it’s used as prescribed by a doctor. Be careful not to get the solution on any other parts of your body. Your doctor will also trim your nails once each month during treatment.
Step 4: Wear Gloves When Working With Harsh Chemicals
Harsha chemicals can cause trigger the growth of nail fungi . The most common way to get nail fungus is by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces, such as public showers or locker rooms. Nail fungus can also be passed from person to person.
Step 5: Avoid Sharing Personal Items
To avoid nail fungus, follow these five steps:
- Wear a sunscreen when outdoors
- Avoid direct sunlight while taking the medication
- Keep your nails trimmed short
- Use a humidifier in your home
- Wear socks when you are going outside
Step 6: Choose Breathable Shoes
Avoiding tight-fitting shoes or high heels can help prevent the spread of nail fungus. Wearing socks that absorb moisture can also help keep your feet dry and free from fungus.
Step 7: Treat Any Underlying Conditions
There are a few steps you can take to prevent nail fungus, including washing your hands regularly, avoiding unprotected exposure to sunlight and keeping your nails clean. If you do develop nail fungus, use an over-the-counter ointment or cream to soothe the area and dry it off. You can also use a topical medication prescribed by a doctor. If the infection is severe or if it doesn’t improve with treatment, your doctor may recommend surgery.
Step 8: Use Antifungal Treatments
There are a variety of antifungal treatments available, and experts recommend using a treatment that is specific to the type of fungus that your nails have.
Nail fungus is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Trichophyton rubrum.
Antifungal treatments are effective at treating nail fungus.
It is important to find a treatment that is effective for you and your specific nail fungus symptoms.
Step 9: See a Doctor if the Problem Persists
A healthcare provider will usually prescribe an antifungal nail cream or ointment. These treatments can take up to 12 weeks to work. You may need to apply the medication daily, and you’ll likely need to continue treatment for some time after the fungus appears to have cleared.
List of Symptoms of Nail Fungus
1. Itching
Nail fungus is a condition that affects the nails. It is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Rhizopus oryzae. Treatment typically involves prescription medications and/or surgery.
You can prevent nail fungus by regularly washing your feet and cleaning your nails. To treat nail fungus, you should take efinaconazole or ciclopirox orally once daily. You can also use ciclopirox topically twice daily if your nails are red, itchy, or burning. If your nails are swollen, itching, or have any other symptoms, you may be experiencing side effects from the drugs you are taking.
2. Discharge
Nail fungus is a condition caused by fungal overgrowth on the nails. It can cause problems with the nail, such as yellowing and ridging, as well as discharge from the nails.
3. Discoloration of the Nail
Nails that are thick and crumbly can be a sign of nail fungus, also called onychomycosis. This condition is caused by an overgrowth of yeast or fungi called dermatophytes. Nail fungus can be difficult to treat, and the infection may come back.
If you think you have nail fungus, see your doctor for a diagnosis. Your doctor may prescribe antifungal medicine that you take by mouth or apply to your nails.
4. Thickening of the Nail
Thickened nails, yellow nails, or nails with white spots can be a sign of nail fungus. If you think you have nail fungus, it’s important to see your doctor so they can prescribe the right treatment.
5. Changes in the Shape or Size of the Nail
The symptoms of nail fungus can include white or yellow streaks on the nail, a thick or brittle nail, loss of shine, change in nail shape, and crumbling or jagged edges. Debris may be trapped under the nails.
6. Pain When the Nail Is Touched or When the Nail Is Cut
When the nail is sensitive to touch, it can be a sign of nail fungus. If you have nail fungus, you may notice your nails are thickened, yellow, or brittle. The good news is there are treatments available to help clear up the infection and get your nails back to normal.
7. Difficulty in Filing or Shaping the Nail
If filing your nails or shaping them has become difficult, it may be time to treat your nail fungus. The fungus can make your nails thick, brittle, and discolored. It can also cause pain when you walk or put pressure on the nail.
8. Inability to Remove the Nail
If you can’t remove your nails, you can try using an over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal cream, lotion, or ointment. These products are usually applied to the skin around the nail.
If the nail is thick and hard to trim, you can soak it in warm water for 10 minutes. This will help make the nail softer and easier to trim.
9. Thickening of the Nail Beyond the Normal Range
If your nail is thickened beyond normal, it may be due to a fungal infection. Fungal infections of the nails are often difficult to treat and may require oral antifungal medication.
Nail Fungus Causes
Nail fungus can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics and environment. There are many types of nail fungus, and each requires a different treatment. Treatment for nail fungus typically includes antibiotics and/or topical treatments.
Nail Fungus Diagnosis
To find out for sure if you have nail fungus, your doctor may take a sample of your infected nail. This involves gently scraping off a small piece of the nail and sending it to a lab for testing.
If your doctor suspects you have nail fungus, they may prescribe an antifungal medication. This could be a pill that you take by mouth or a cream, lotion, or ointment that you apply to your nail.
A more detailed process could include:
Step 1: A dermatologist will examine your nails and surrounding skin to determine the infection.
Step 2: If nail fungus is diagnosed, Treatment may include ointments, creams, or prescribed antibiotics.
Step 3: Collecting samples from beneath nails, trimming off parts of nails, or scraping off skin can help diagnose the infection and provide important treatment information.
Step 4: To diagnose nail fungus a lab must examine samples under a microscope.
If you are hiding an infected nail with nail polish be sure to ask your dermatologist.
Nail Fungus Complications
If toenail fungus is not treated, it can lead to complications such as nail splitting or pain. It is important to get treatment as soon as possible to prevent these problems from happening. Other complications can include:
- Cellulitis: This is a skin infection that can occur if the toenail fungus spreads to the skin.
- Paronychia: This is an infection of the tissue around the nail.
- Nail discoloration: The nail may turn yellow, brown, or white.
- Nail thickening: The nail may thicken and become deformed.
If you have any of these complications, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Nail Fungus Risk Factors
Having a chronic illness, such as diabetes or HIV, also increases your risk of developing nail fungus. The best treatment for nail fungus depends on the cause. If you are diagnosed with nail fungus, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal ointment or cream or recommend surgery to remove the affected nails.
Nail Infection in a Person Who Is Immunocompromised
Immuno-compromised individuals are more susceptible to nail fungus infections. The most common symptom of nail fungus is a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the infection progresses, the nail may become thickened, brittle/crumbly/ragged, change color, and develop separation from the nail bed. An infected nail may also emit a foul odor.
Nail Infection in a Person Who Is Pregnant
Pregnancy can cause changes in the body that make you more susceptible to nail fungus infections. This is because the body’s immune system is weaker during pregnancy. The most common symptom of nail fungus is a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail.
Nail Infection in a Person Who Is Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can also increase the risk of developing nail fungus. This is because the body’s immune system is weaker during this time.
Nail Infection in a Person Who Has Diabetes
Diabetes can also increase the risk of developing nail fungus. This is because the body’s immune system is weaker and there is more sugar in the blood, which provides food for the fungus.
Alternative Treatments for Nail Fungus
1. Tea Tree Oil
Topical application of tea tree oil to the nails can be effective in treating nail fungus. Tea tree oil can be applied topically to the nail with a cotton swab, and is available in therapeutic-grade formulations online.
2. Snakeroot Extract
Snakeroot extract is an antifungal that is effective against toenail fungus.
The extract is applied to the affected area every third day for the first month, twice a week for the second month, and once a week for the third month.
The extract is effective against toenail fungus as the antifungal medication ciclopirox.
The side effects of snakeroot extract include burning and stinging of the skin where it was applied, redness, scaling, and pain.
3. Garlic
Garlic can be used to treat nail fungus, with benefits including reducing the appearance of the infection, stopping it from spreading, and reducing pain. Garlic cloves can be placed on the nail fungus for 30 minutes a day, or garlic capsules can be taken to treat the fungus from the inside out.
4. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is a natural treatment for nail fungus. It is effective and may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Oregano oil can be found online.
5. Olive Leaf Extract
The benefits of olive leaf extract for nail fungus include antifungal, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting abilities. Olive leaf extract can be applied to nail fungus or taken in capsule form. Taking olive leaf capsules with meals twice daily is more effective than using olive leaf salve.
Some potential side effects of olive leaf extract for nail fungus include dryness, redness, and cracking around the nails.
6. Ozonized Oils
Ozonized oils are effective in treating nail fungus. The oil is injected with low concentrations of ozone gas, which inactivates many organisms. Ozonized oils are more effective than prescription topical antifungals at treating toenail fungus.
7. Vinegar
Vinegar can be used to treat nail fungus. Vinegar should be mixed with warm water and soaks should last for up to 20 minutes. There is only anecdotal evidence supporting vinegar as a treatment for nail fungus, but it’s worth a try.
8. Mouthwash
Mouthwash has many benefits for toenail fungus, including killing the fungus and reducing the symptoms. To use mouthwash, soak the feet in a basin of it and apply it daily. Listerine mouthwash can be bought online.
What’s the bottom line here?
To treat nail fungus, follow these nine steps:
- Seek professional help if the nail fungus is severe or hasn’t responded to over-the-counter treatments. A physiatrist can diagnose and treat a range of pain conditions.
- Remove the infected nails using a sterile technique, such as filing or scraping. Do not attempt to cure the infection yourself; this could cause more damage and lead to further nail fungus growth
- Apply an over-the-counter anti-fungal cream or ointment every day for two weeks, then once a week for one month
- Follow up with your doctor if you haven’t seen improvements after two months of treatment
- Avoid wearing closed shoes, socks, or sandals in hot weather – these environments encourage the growth of fungus on your nails
- Keep your hands clean – rub them down with a dishwashing liquid mixed with water before washing them – and avoid touching your face or other sensitive areas
Looking for the best nail fungus treatments? This guide has you covered with advice on how to treat nail fungus, including over-the-counter and prescription treatments, home remedies, and more.