Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that affects fingernails and toenails. When you have nail fungus, you might notice that your nails change color, thicken, or become brittle.
If left untreated, nail fungus can spread to other nails or even cause permanent damage. While you can try to treat nail fungus at home, seeing a “nail fungus dr,” like a podiatrist or dermatologist, can often yield better results.
This article will give you a complete overview of nail fungus, including what causes it, how to treat it, and how to prevent it from coming back.
What causes nail fungus?
Fungi love damp, dark places. That’s one reason why toenail fungus is so much more common than fingernail fungus. Your feet spend all day in your socks and shoes, which can create a cozy environment for fungi to flourish.
The most common types of fungi that cause nail infections are called dermatophytes.
You’re more likely to get a nail fungus if:
- You’re older
- You have athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)
- You have poor circulation
- Your nails have been injured or are not shaped normally
Diagnosis of nail fungus
It’s important to get a professional diagnosis from a doctor if you think you have nail fungus. Don’t try to self-diagnose!
Often, a dermatologist can diagnose nail fungus just by looking at your nails. But to be sure, they’ll probably want to do some lab testing. That involves taking a sample of nail debris, clippings, or skin scrapings from under your nail and sending it to a lab to identify the specific type of fungus.
Why is professional diagnosis so important? Because other conditions can look a lot like nail fungus, and you want to make sure you’re treating the right problem.
Treatment Options: Over-the-Counter Remedies
If you’re trying to treat nail fungus on your own, you might start with over-the-counter (OTC) remedies. Keep in mind that these might not completely get rid of the infection.
Common OTC options include, and some people explore alternatives like Betadine:
- Antifungal creams and lotions
- Mentholated salve (like Vicks VapoRub)
- Snakeroot extract
- Tea tree oil
To use these treatments, clean and dry the affected nail, then apply the product directly to the nail. Make sure to follow the product’s instructions for use.
Prescription treatments for nail fungus
If you’ve got a bad case of nail fungus, your doctor may recommend prescription medication. Here are some of the options.
Topical prescription medications
There are several prescription-strength topical medications for nail fungus. Some examples are amorolfine, ciclopirox, efinaconazole, and tavaborole.
These medications work by attacking the fungus directly. They’re most effective for mild to moderate infections.
Oral antifungal medications
For more aggressive nail fungus infections, your doctor may recommend oral medications, such as fluconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazole, or terbinafine.
These medications can have side effects, though. Your doctor will likely want to run blood tests to monitor your health while you’re taking them.
Combination therapy
In some cases, doctors recommend combination therapy, which means using both oral and topical treatments at the same time.
The idea is that using both types of medications can be more effective than using either one alone.
Other treatment options: laser therapy and nail removal
If topical and oral medications aren’t effective for you, your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as laser therapy or nail removal.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy targets nail fungus with concentrated light. The light heats and damages the fungus, which ought to kill it. But does it really work?
The truth is that we need more research to know how effective laser therapy is for nail fungus. If your doctor recommends this treatment, be sure to ask about their experience with it and what kind of results you can expect.
Nail removal
Nail removal is usually a last resort for very severe cases of nail fungus or when other treatments haven’t worked. There are surgical and nonsurgical methods for removing a nail.
After nail removal, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to prevent infection and promote healing. It can take several months for a new, healthy nail to grow back.
How to prevent nail fungus
The best way to treat nail fungus is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are my top tips for keeping your nails healthy and fungus-free:
- Practice good hygiene: Keep your hands and feet clean and dry.
- Trim your nails: Keep your nails trimmed short on a regular basis.
- Wear breathable shoes and socks: Choose shoes and socks that allow your feet to breathe.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public: Wear shoes in public places like locker rooms and swimming pools.
- Use antifungal products: Use antifungal sprays or powders to help prevent fungal growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does insurance cover podiatrists?
Generally, yes, insurance does cover podiatrists, especially if you have a medical need. However, coverage can vary depending on your specific plan. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand your benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs before seeking treatment.
What happens if you have toenail fungus for too long?
Leaving toenail fungus untreated for an extended period can lead to several issues. The infection can spread to other nails or even the skin. It can also cause thickening, discoloration, and pain in the affected nail, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes comfortably. In severe cases, the nail may even detach from the nail bed.
Do you see a doctor or podiatrist for nail fungus?
You can see either a general practitioner (doctor) or a podiatrist (foot and ankle specialist) for nail fungus. While your family doctor can diagnose and prescribe oral or topical medications, a podiatrist has specialized knowledge and tools to address more complex cases, including nail debridement or removal if necessary.
What one cup of this will destroy your nail fungus?
There’s no single “magic” cup that will definitively destroy nail fungus. While some home remedies like soaking your feet in diluted vinegar or tea tree oil have shown anecdotal promise, they’re not scientifically proven to eradicate the infection completely. Medical treatments prescribed by a doctor or podiatrist are usually more effective.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which have some antifungal properties. While it might not cure the infection entirely, some people find that applying Vicks VapoRub to the affected nail can help inhibit fungal growth and provide temporary relief from symptoms. However, it’s generally considered a complementary treatment rather than a primary solution.
Putting It All Together
If you think you have nail fungus, it’s important to get it diagnosed and treated early. There are a variety of treatments available, including prescription medications, topical treatments, and laser therapy. It’s also important to focus on preventing nail fungus with good hygiene practices.
The best way to get rid of nail fungus is to talk to a doctor about your options. A healthcare professional can give you personalized advice and treatment to help you get healthy nails again.