Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that can be caused by several different kinds of microorganisms, including yeasts and bacteria. Sometimes, you can treat toenail fungus yourself. However, more severe cases may require the intervention of a nail fungus doctor, such as a dermatologist or podiatrist.
If your toenail fungus is getting worse, or if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes, it’s essential to seek professional medical advice. This article will cover how a doctor diagnoses toenail fungus, what treatment options are available, and how you can prevent future infections.
Diagnosing toenail fungus: What to expect
When you see a doctor for toenail fungus, they’ll start by examining your affected nail. After that, they’ll probably want to take some nail clippings to send to a lab. That’s because it’s important to identify the specific type of fungus causing the infection. That way, you can get the most effective treatment.
It’s also important to get the right diagnosis so your doctor can rule out other conditions that might look like toenail fungus. There are a number of other nail problems that can mimic a fungal infection, so it’s important to be sure.
Treatment Options: What Works and What Doesn’t
Nail fungus can be stubborn. It may take a combination of strategies to get rid of nail fungus for good.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments and Home Remedies
If you head to the pharmacy, you’ll find many antifungal creams and lotions that don’t require a prescription, including options like Fungisol for nail fungus. Some examples include mentholated salve, snakeroot extract, and tea tree oil. You can also find these online.
Keep in mind that while these products can offer temporary relief from symptoms, they may not fully resolve the infection. You may find that home remedies such as soaking your feet in Listerine or vinegar can help, but there’s not much scientific evidence to prove that these treatments work, and other alternatives like Betadine for toenail fungus should be researched carefully.
Prescription Medications
A doctor can prescribe stronger topical antifungal medications. Some examples include ciclopirox, efinaconazole, naftifine, tavaborole, and terbinafine. Your doctor may also thin the nail to help the medication penetrate deeper.
For more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications, such as itraconazole and terbinafine. These medications are stronger and more likely to cause side effects or interact with other medications you’re taking. It’s also worth noting that these drugs may be less effective in adults over 65.
Advanced treatment options: When medications aren’t enough
Sometimes, nail fungus is stubborn and doesn’t respond to the usual medications. When that happens, there are a couple of other things you and your doctor might consider.
Laser treatment
Laser treatment is a newer option for toenail fungus. The doctor uses a laser to kill the fungus. At this point, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm its long-term effectiveness.
During the procedure, the doctor directs a laser beam at the infected nail. The laser light heats up and damages the fungus, which kills it. You might need several treatments over a few months.
Nail removal
Nail removal is usually a last resort for severe cases of nail fungus, such as when you have severe pain or the infection is extensive.
During nail removal, your doctor numbs your toe and then removes all or part of the infected nail. It can take several months for a new nail to grow back, and sometimes the new nail grows back deformed.
Lifestyle adjustments and home care for managing toenail fungus
While a nail fungus doctor can provide treatment, your daily habits also play a big role in managing the condition. Good foot hygiene is key. Here’s what that looks like:
- Keep your hands and feet clean and dry
- Trim your nails regularly
- Change your socks and shoes frequently
- Wear shower shoes in public places
Before you trim your nails, consider softening them with a urea-containing cream. This makes them easier to manage.
Finally, if you have blood flow issues, it’s especially important to seek professional foot care to avoid complications.
Prevention strategies: Keeping your nails healthy
Here are some things you can do to keep your nails fungus-free:
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- Don’t share nail clippers or other personal grooming items.
- Wear shoes and socks that let your feet breathe.
- Wear shower shoes or flip-flops in public places like swimming pools and locker rooms.
- If you have diabetes, pay extra attention to your toenails and see a doctor right away if you notice any changes.
When to See a Doctor: Recognizing the Signs
If home remedies aren’t cutting it, it’s time to see a doctor. Don’t wait!
See a dermatologist or podiatrist if you notice any of the following:
- Your symptoms are getting worse
- Your nail is getting darker
- You feel pain
- Your nail is separating from your nail bed
- You have diabetes or another underlying health condition
The sooner you get help, the better your chances of a successful outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which doctor can cure nail fungus?
A dermatologist or a podiatrist are the best doctors to see for nail fungus. Dermatologists specialize in skin, hair, and nail conditions, while podiatrists focus on foot and ankle problems. Both can diagnose and treat nail fungus effectively.
What deficiency causes nail fungus?
While no single deficiency directly causes nail fungus, a weakened immune system due to underlying health conditions or nutritional deficiencies can make you more susceptible. Conditions like diabetes or deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can compromise your body’s ability to fight off fungal infections.
How do I get rid of nail fungus ASAP?
Unfortunately, there’s no instant cure for nail fungus. Effective treatment usually takes time and patience. Prescription oral medications are typically the fastest route, but they come with potential side effects that should be discussed with your doctor. Topical treatments are an option, but they can take much longer to work.
How much does it cost to treat toenail fungus?
The cost of toenail fungus treatment varies greatly depending on the approach. Over-the-counter topical treatments are the least expensive, while prescription oral medications can be pricier, especially without insurance. Laser treatments are another option, but they are usually not covered by insurance and can be quite costly.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Don’t ignore it! Nail fungus won’t go away on its own and can worsen over time. Also, avoid using shared nail clippers or going barefoot in public places to prevent spreading the infection. Lastly, don’t self-treat with unproven remedies without consulting a doctor, as this can delay effective treatment and potentially cause further complications.
Summary
Toenail fungus can be stubborn, so it’s important to get a proper diagnosis and stick with your treatment plan. A podiatrist or other health professional can help you understand your options.
Taking steps like keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing breathable socks and shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places can help prevent future infections.