Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common infection of the toenails. It’s caused by microscopic organisms like yeasts, molds, and bacteria.
If you think you might have toenail fungus, it’s important to get a diagnosis from a qualified professional because treatment options depend on the cause and severity of the infection.
This article explores how a doctor identifies toenail fungus, what treatments are available over the counter and by prescription, how to prevent toenail fungus, and when you should see a toe nail fungus doctor.
Diagnosing toenail fungus
If you think you have toenail fungus, your doctor will examine the affected nail. They’ll likely take some nail clippings and send them to a lab for testing to figure out exactly what kind of fungus you have.
It’s important to get a proper diagnosis before you start treatment. Different types of fungus need different treatments, and if you use the wrong treatment, it won’t work or could even be harmful. Also, other conditions, like psoriasis or nail trauma, can look like toenail fungus.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments for Toenail Fungus
If you’re dealing with toenail fungus, you may be wondering if you can treat it yourself.
Topical Antifungal Medications
There are many OTC antifungal creams and lotions that target the fungus on the surface of the nail. These are more effective if you first thin the nail by filing or using an OTC nail thinning product.
Alternative OTC Remedies
Some people try mentholated salve, snakeroot extract, tea tree oil, or soaking the affected foot in Listerine or vinegar, but before you believe the hype, it is worth researching Belleka Nail Fungus Treatment reviews. While these remedies may provide temporary relief, they aren’t always a permanent solution.
Before trying any home remedy, it’s best to talk to a doctor or podiatrist about your options.
When to See a Doctor for Toenail Fungus
You should see a doctor if your toenail fungus doesn’t improve with at-home treatments, or if it gets worse. Signs that the infection is worsening include darkening of the nail, pain, or the nail separating from the nail bed.
If you have diabetes, it’s especially important to seek prompt treatment for toenail fungus. Diabetes can impair blood flow, which makes infections harder to treat.
The best type of doctor to see for toenail fungus is either a dermatologist or a podiatrist.
Prescription medicines for toenail fungus
If over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping your toenail fungus, your doctor may prescribe something stronger.
Topical prescription medications
There are several prescription-strength topical medications your doctor might recommend, including:
- Ciclopirox
- Efinaconazole
- Tavaborole
You’ll likely have to apply these medications every day for many months. Be sure to follow the directions, and don’t stop treatment early even if your toenail looks better.
Oral antifungal medications
If your toenail fungus is severe, your doctor may prescribe oral medications, such as:
- Itraconazole
- Terbinafine
These medications work by helping a new, healthy nail grow in as the old, infected nail grows out. Oral medications come with potential side effects, and they can interact with other medications you’re taking.
It’s important to know that these medications may not be as effective for older adults.
Other treatments for toenail fungus
Laser treatment
Laser treatment is a newer option that targets fungus with concentrated light. More research is needed to determine how effective it is over the long term.
Nail removal
Nail removal is a treatment of last resort. Your doctor may recommend it in severe cases of toenail fungus, especially when there’s significant pain or deformity.
In this procedure, the doctor will surgically remove the nail or remove it using chemicals. The process of recovering from nail removal can be lengthy.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus
Good nail care is essential. Make sure you’re trimming your toenails straight across and keeping them clean and dry.
Some other things you can do at home include:
- Using urea-containing creams to soften your nails.
- Thinning your nails to help medicine penetrate them more easily.
If you have poor circulation to your feet, it’s also important to see a foot and ankle specialist for professional care.
Preventing toenail fungus
The best treatment for toenail fungus is preventing it in the first place. Good foot hygiene is critical.
Here are some ways you can prevent toenail fungus:
- Keep your hands and feet clean and dry.
- Trim your toenails regularly.
- Change your socks and shoes frequently, especially if your feet sweat a lot.
- Wear shower shoes in public places like gyms and pools.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get rid of nail fungus ASAP?
Unfortunately, there’s no magic bullet for getting rid of toenail fungus quickly. Treatment typically takes several months, as it requires the new, healthy nail to grow in and replace the infected portion. Prescription oral medications are generally the fastest route, but they come with potential side effects, so discuss all options with your doctor.
Can a dermatologist treat toenail fungus?
Absolutely! Dermatologists are skin, hair, and nail specialists, making them excellent resources for diagnosing and treating toenail fungus. They can prescribe oral or topical medications, perform nail debridement (removing infected parts of the nail), and even offer laser treatments.
Does insurance cover toenail fungus treatment?
Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. Oral medications are often covered, but topical treatments and laser therapy may not be. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
While Vicks VapoRub isn’t a proven cure for toenail fungus, some people find it helpful. Its active ingredients, like camphor and eucalyptus oil, have antifungal properties that may inhibit fungal growth. However, it’s often less effective than prescription treatments and may take a very long time to show results.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can worsen toenail fungus, including a warm, moist environment (like sweaty socks), wearing tight-fitting shoes, having a weakened immune system, poor foot hygiene, and nail injuries. Diabetes and other underlying health conditions can also increase your risk and make treatment more challenging.
In closing
Toenail fungus needs to be diagnosed and treated properly. You can try over-the-counter remedies, but if those don’t work, prescription medications are also available.
If you think you have toenail fungus, it’s a good idea to get medical advice from a doctor. The sooner you start treatment, the better the outcome will be.