Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition where a fungal infection gets under your toenails or fingernails. It’s not pretty, and it can be uncomfortable. You might notice discoloration, thickening, or crumbling of the nail. No one wants to deal with it, and naturally, people want it gone fast.
So, is a 7 day nail fungus treatment realistic? Well, completely getting rid of a stubborn fungal infection in just a week is a tall order. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t see noticeable improvements in a short amount of time. This article will explore what you can realistically expect from a 7-day treatment plan and what types of treatments might offer the quickest results.
Spotting nail fungus
Nail fungus isn’t pretty, but it’s also pretty common. It can show up on your toenails or your fingernails.
Signs of nail fungus
- Discoloration. You might notice yellow, brown, or white spots or streaks on your nail. These spots can start small but spread over time. It’s important to treat nail fungus early, when it’s most easily managed.
- Thickening and distortion. The nail might get thick, brittle, crumbly, or ragged. The shape of the nail can also change.
- Pain and discomfort. Your nail might hurt when you wear shoes or walk. It might even separate from the nail bed.
When to see a doctor
It’s important to get a diagnosis from a doctor or podiatrist if you think you have nail fungus. Other conditions can look like nail fungus, so you want to be sure you know what you’re dealing with.
To diagnose nail fungus, your doctor may take a nail clipping and send it to a lab for testing. The lab can use microscopy or culture to identify the fungus. Getting the right diagnosis is key to getting the right treatment.
Over-the-counter treatments: Options and limitations
If you suspect you have nail fungus, you might be tempted to try an over-the-counter medication. These products are easy to get and inexpensive. But do they work?
Topical antifungal medications
You can find creams, ointments, and even nail polish-like lacquers that contain antifungal ingredients. Common ingredients include tolnaftate, clotrimazole, and miconazole. These medications work by stopping the fungus from growing.
However, OTC treatments are often not effective for nail fungus, especially compared to skin infections. The biggest problem is that it’s hard for the medication to get through the hard nail plate and reach the infection.
Nail filing and trimming
Even if you use a medication, it’s important to file your nails regularly to thin the infected nail. Thinning the nail can help the medication get to the fungus more easily.
When you trim your nails, trim them straight across. Don’t cut into the skin around the nail, as this can create an opening for more infection.
Prescription treatments for faster results
If over-the-counter remedies don’t work, it might be time to see a doctor. They can prescribe stronger treatments.
Topical prescription antifungals
Prescription-strength topical medications like efinaconazole (Jublia) and tavaborole (Kerydin) have better nail penetration than over-the-counter options, but there are also options like Footlogix Anti-Fungal Toe Tincture. You apply them directly to the affected nail, usually daily, for several months.
Prescription topical treatments tend to have higher success rates than over-the-counter options, and they come with a lower risk of side effects than oral medications.
Oral antifungal medications
Common oral antifungal medications like terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox) work systemically to kill the fungus. Treatment typically lasts 6-12 weeks for toenails.
However, oral medications can have side effects, including liver toxicity, so you’ll need to have your liver function monitored. They can also interact with other drugs you’re taking, so be sure to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you use.
Laser therapy and other procedures
Laser therapy targets and kills the fungus with focused light. You’ll likely need several sessions. Laser treatment can be effective, but it also has limitations.
In severe cases, your doctor might recommend nail avulsion, which is surgical removal of the nail. You might need this if the infection is very deep and widespread. Recovery after nail avulsion can take some time.
Home remedies and other treatments
When you’re facing a stubborn case of nail fungus, you might want to explore some at-home treatments, or investigate options like EMUAID. Keep in mind that these remedies are not a substitute for medical care, but they may provide some relief and support healing.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal remedy that you can apply directly to the affected nail. Because it can be a little harsh on the skin, it’s important to mix it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil.
While there isn’t a ton of scientific evidence to back up the use of tea tree oil for nail fungus, some studies have shown that it can be effective against certain types of fungi.
Vinegar soaks
Vinegar, whether white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, can also help to inhibit fungal growth. Dilute the vinegar with water and soak your feet for about 20 minutes a day. Be careful, though, because vinegar can cause skin irritation for some people.
Other home remedies
There are other popular home remedies that some people swear by, like baking soda and garlic. These are often used as adjunctive therapies, meaning that people use them in addition to medical treatments.
Hygiene and prevention
No matter what treatment you choose, it’s important to keep your feet clean and dry. That means washing your feet regularly and drying them thoroughly, especially between the toes. It also means wearing breathable socks and shoes.
You should avoid walking barefoot in public places like gyms, swimming pools, and locker rooms, where fungal infections can spread easily.
Finally, be sure to disinfect your nail clippers and other tools after each use to prevent reinfection.
Building a 7-Day Treatment Plan: Realistic Expectations
I want to be clear: you probably can’t get rid of nail fungus in 7 days. But it’s possible to kickstart a treatment plan that will get you where you want to go.
Combining Treatments for Maximum Impact
You might find that prescription topical medication is more effective when you combine it with home remedies. Talk to your doctor about which combination of treatments is right for you.
Consistency is key, so be sure to follow your treatment plan precisely. Set a daily reminder to apply your medication, and stay on top of regular nail filing.
Managing Expectations and Long-Term Care
Don’t expect a miracle cure in just one week. You may see some improvement within 7 days, but full treatment takes longer.
It’s important to continue your treatment even after you see initial improvement. This will help prevent the infection from coming back.
Also, make sure to schedule regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. These appointments are a great time to ask any questions you have about nail fungus and its treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What not to do with toenail fungus
Don’t ignore it! Ignoring a toenail fungus infection allows it to spread and worsen. Also, avoid using someone else’s nail clippers or going barefoot in public places to prevent spreading the infection. Don’t pick at or try to forcibly remove the infected nail, as this can cause further damage and potentially introduce other infections.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Absolutely not! Cutting off your toenail yourself is a risky move. It can lead to serious infections and won’t necessarily get rid of the fungus. A doctor might remove part or all of the nail in severe cases, but this should always be done under sterile conditions.
What is the fastest treatment for nail fungus?
Let’s be real, a truly fast treatment is tough to come by. While some over-the-counter options might offer quicker results, prescription oral medications, like terbinafine, generally provide the most effective and relatively faster outcomes. However, these medications have potential side effects, so talk to your doctor.
What one cup of this will destroy your nail fungus?
Beware of claims promising a magic cure! There’s no single ingredient or “one cup of this” that can instantly eradicate nail fungus. While some home remedies, like tea tree oil, have antifungal properties and might help, they’re usually not strong enough to eliminate the infection completely. Always consult with a healthcare professional for the best treatment plan.
What does dying nail fungus look like?
As the fungus starts to die, you might notice the affected nail gradually returning to its normal color and thickness. The discoloration may fade, and new, healthy nail growth will appear at the base. However, it takes time for the infected nail to grow out completely, so patience is key!
Key Takeaways
Nail fungus needs to be properly diagnosed before you can begin treating it. There are many different treatment options, but you need to have realistic expectations. A 7-day nail fungus treatment plan can be a good first step, but it’s important to commit to treating nail fungus for the long haul.
If you think you have nail fungus, see a doctor. Early intervention can improve treatment outcomes. You can get healthy, fungus-free nails if you are proactive and persistent!