Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that can make your nails look yellowed, thick, and brittle. It’s not pretty, and it can be tough to get rid of.
Luckily, there are a number of treatments available, from creams and pills to procedures performed by a podiatrist. This article will walk you through your options for a clear nails fungus treatment, and get you back to feeling confident about your feet.
Diagnosing nail fungus
If you think you have nail fungus, the first thing a dermatologist will do is take a look at the affected nail. This visual examination will help them determine the severity and type of infection.
To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor will probably send some nail clippings or scrapings to a lab for analysis. This will help identify the specific type of fungus that’s causing the infection.
It’s really important to get a professional diagnosis before you start any treatment. If you try to treat it yourself without knowing what you’re dealing with, you could end up using the wrong treatment, which won’t work and could even make things worse.
Topical treatments for nail fungus
If you have a mild to moderate nail fungus infection, you and your doctor may decide to try a topical treatment.
Types of topical antifungals
There are several prescription medications, such as amorolfine, ciclopirox, efinaconazole, and tavaborole, that you apply directly to your nails to kill the fungus. Some may also consider using an ABERA Nail Fungus Serum as a nail repair solution. You can also find over-the-counter medications, but these are usually not as effective as prescription treatments.
Application and duration
Whichever treatment you and your doctor choose, whether it’s a prescription or even a BioClear Nail Fungus Pen, it’s very important that you apply it exactly as directed. If you don’t, it won’t work.
Also, you’ll need to be patient. It can take four to six months to clear up a fingernail infection and 12 to 18 months to clear up a toenail infection.
Oral antifungal medications
When a nail fungus digs in deep, your doctor may recommend an oral medication.
When are oral medications necessary?
Oral antifungal medications are typically used for severe or stubborn infections. These medications work inside your body to get rid of the fungus.
Types of oral antifungals
Common oral medications include fluconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazole, and terbinafine. These drugs tend to work better than topical treatments.
Side effects and monitoring
Oral antifungals can cause side effects, including liver damage. Your doctor may order regular blood tests to keep an eye on your liver function.
Before you start taking an oral medication, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Clearanail treatment: A modern approach
If you’re looking for a modern approach to clear nail fungus, you may want to ask your doctor about Clearanail treatment or even explore laser treatment for nail fungus.
How Clearanail works
Clearanail is a patented medical device that uses controlled micro-penetration (CMP) to create tiny holes in your nail. These holes allow topical treatments to reach deeper into the nail bed where the fungus lives.
The device is designed to be safe and nearly painless.
Benefits of Clearanail
Clearanail has some unique benefits. For example, it allows for targeted application of topical medications, and it can improve diagnosis, since the dust collected from the micro-holes can be tested for the presence of fungus.
With Clearanail, you may see results in just two to eight weeks.
Consult with a podiatrist
Clearanail treatment is usually performed by a podiatrist. If you’re wondering whether Clearanail is right for you, make an appointment for an examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you scrape off nail fungus?
While you might be tempted to scrape off nail fungus, it’s generally not effective and can even be harmful. Scraping can damage the nail bed and surrounding skin, potentially leading to infection. It’s best to consult with a doctor for proper treatment options.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Some people find Vicks VapoRub helpful for nail fungus because it contains ingredients like camphor and eucalyptus oil, which have antifungal properties. However, it’s not a proven cure and may only provide temporary relief from symptoms. Clinical studies on its effectiveness are limited, so more research is needed.
Does Clearanail really work?
Clearanail is a device designed to create micro-holes in the nail, allowing antifungal medications to penetrate deeper. Its effectiveness varies depending on the severity of the infection and individual factors. While some users report positive results, others may not experience significant improvement.
What not to do with nail fungus?
Avoid picking at or cutting the infected nail excessively, as this can spread the fungus and increase the risk of infection. Also, don’t share nail clippers or files with others. It’s crucial to keep your feet clean and dry, and wear breathable socks and shoes to prevent the fungus from thriving.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Cutting off your toenail yourself is generally not recommended. It can be painful, increase the risk of infection, and may not even eliminate the fungus, which often resides in the nail bed. A doctor can assess the situation and determine if nail removal is necessary as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Key Takeaways
If you want to get rid of nail fungus, it’s important to follow your doctor’s treatment plan exactly.
You can help prevent nail fungus by keeping your feet clean and dry, trimming your nails regularly, and wearing shoes in public places.
Nail fungus can take a long time to go away, and it can come back. It’s a good idea to see your doctor regularly to make sure the infection is gone and to prevent it from returning.