Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection. It can start small but spread if left untreated. It’s not just a cosmetic issue, either.
Having toenail fungus can affect your life in several ways. It can cause pain when walking or exercising, discomfort in shoes, and even embarrassment when wearing sandals or going barefoot. These symptoms can affect your quality of life and make it important to seek treatment.
If you suspect you have toenail fungus, don’t worry. It’s often treatable. This article explores how to diagnose toenail fungus, what treatments are available (including medications, home remedies, and even surgery), and what you can do to prevent toenail fungus from developing in the first place. We’ll also cover proper nail care for healthy, fungus-free toenails, even if you have to file fungus toenails, following this guide to a nail fungus eliminator.
Understanding toenail fungus: Causes, symptoms, and diagnosis
Toenail fungus is a common condition that can be unsightly and uncomfortable. Let’s take a closer look at what causes it, what the symptoms are, and how doctors figure out what’s going on.
What causes toenail fungus?
Several kinds of microorganisms, including yeasts and bacteria, can cause toenail fungus. You can pick up these microorganisms in lots of places, including public showers, swimming pools, and nail salons.
Some things make you more likely to get a toenail fungal infection, such as:
- Older age
- Diabetes
- Poor circulation
- Nail injuries
Recognizing the symptoms
If you have a toenail fungal infection, you might notice symptoms such as:
- Thickening of the nail
- Discoloration (often yellow or brown)
- Brittleness
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
As the infection gets worse, the nail can become distorted and may even give off an odor. Gross!
Diagnosing toenail fungus
If you suspect you have a toenail fungal infection, you’ll want to get an accurate diagnosis to rule out other possible conditions. Your doctor will examine your nail and may take nail clippings for lab tests.
Lab tests are important because other conditions can look like fungal infections. It’s good to know for sure what you’re dealing with.
Treatment Options: A Comprehensive Overview
Toenail fungus can be a real pain, but the good news is that there are several treatment options available. The best approach depends on how severe the infection is and your overall health.
When Treatment is Necessary
In some mild cases, you might not even need treatment. If the infection isn’t bothering you and isn’t spreading, sometimes self-care measures can clear it up.
However, it’s important to know when to seek professional help. See a doctor if:
- The infection is severe.
- You’re experiencing pain.
- The fungus persists despite your best efforts.
- You have diabetes, as foot problems can be more serious for people with diabetes.
Prescription Antifungal Medications
If self-care isn’t cutting it, your doctor might prescribe antifungal medications. These come in two main forms: oral and topical.
Oral antifungal drugs like itraconazole and terbinafine are often the first-line treatment. They work by helping your body get rid of the fungal infection, but they can have side effects and interact with other medications you might be taking.
These medications might be less effective for older adults, and it’s crucial to discuss any potential risks with your doctor.
Topical antifungal treatments, such as nail polish (ciclopirox) and creams (efinaconazole, tavaborole), are another option. Your doctor may recommend a topical treatment if the infection is mild or if you can’t take oral medications.
Surgical Intervention
In severe cases where other treatments haven’t worked, nail surgery might be considered. This involves removing all or part of the affected nail.
Surgery is a more drastic option, but it can be effective for stubborn infections. Your doctor will explain the procedure and what to expect during the recovery process.
Toenail fungus can be persistent and difficult to treat. But, with the right approach, many people find relief and improvement through a combination of home remedies and lifestyle adjustments.
Toenail fungus can be persistent and difficult to treat. But, with the right approach, many people find relief and improvement through a combination of home remedies and lifestyle changes.
Nail care techniques
Proper nail care is essential in managing toenail fungus.
- Trim the infected area: Use nail clippers to carefully trim away the portions of the nail that are affected by the fungus.
- Soften nails: Thickened nails can be difficult to cut. Applying urea-containing creams to the nails the night before trimming can soften them.
- File down thickened nails: Filing thins the nail so that medication can penetrate more effectively. Scraping off white fungal marks with a nail file also helps.
Home remedies
Many readily available home remedies can help you manage toenail fungus.
- Soaking: Soften toenails by soaking them in warm water for 10 to 30 minutes.
- Over-the-counter medications: Apply antifungal medications as directed.
- Other topical treatments: Some people have found that menthol cream, tea tree oil, snakeroot extract, or garlic may offer some relief.
- Vinegar soaks: Though the research is not conclusive, some people find that vinegar soaks help.
Keep in mind that home remedies have their limitations. For severe cases, when you experience pain, or if the fungus persists, it’s important to consult a doctor. People with diabetes should always seek professional help for toenail fungus.
Lifestyle adjustments
Small changes in your daily habits can make a big difference in preventing and managing toenail fungus.
- Foot hygiene: Wash and moisturize your feet daily, especially if you’re active or tend to sweat a lot.
- Clean, dry socks and shoes: Fungi thrive in moist environments. Using clean, dry socks and shoes helps prevent fungal growth.
Prevention strategies: Maintaining healthy feet
The best way to deal with toenail fungus is to make sure you don’t get it in the first place. Here are some tips for keeping your feet in tip-top shape.
- Practice good foot hygiene. This seems obvious, but washing your feet daily and moisturizing them can go a long way toward preventing fungus.
- Wear breathable shoes and socks. Clean, dry footwear is your friend.
- Disinfect your nail clippers. Don’t spread the infection to other nails (or other people!).
- Wear flip-flops in public showers and locker rooms. These are breeding grounds for fungus, so protect your feet.
- Address underlying health conditions. Conditions like diabetes can increase your risk of nail fungus, so make sure you’re managing any health issues you have.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your feet healthy and fungus-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Absolutely not! Don’t attempt to remove a toenail affected by fungus yourself. It’s best to leave that to a professional. Cutting it off can increase the risk of infection and doesn’t address the underlying fungal issue. See a podiatrist or doctor for proper treatment.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
It’s generally recommended to wear clean, breathable socks to bed if you have toenail fungus. This helps absorb moisture and prevents the fungus from spreading. Opt for cotton or wool socks and change them daily. You may want to consider socks infused with antimicrobial properties for added protection.
What happens if you have toenail fungus for too long?
Ignoring toenail fungus for an extended period can lead to several complications. The infection can worsen, causing thickening, discoloration, and crumbling of the nail. It can also spread to other toenails or even the skin around the nail. In severe cases, it can cause pain and difficulty walking.
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
While “permanently” is a strong word, several treatments can effectively eliminate toenail fungus. Prescription oral antifungal medications are often the most effective, but they can have side effects. Topical antifungal medications, laser therapy, and surgical removal of the nail are other options. It’s essential to consult a doctor for the best treatment plan.
Can you drill away toenail fungus?
Yes, a procedure called mechanical debridement, where a doctor uses a specialized tool to thin or remove the infected part of the nail, is sometimes used. This can help antifungal medications penetrate the nail bed more effectively. It’s not a standalone cure but can be part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Closing Thoughts
Toenail fungus is a common problem, and there are several ways to treat it, including prescription medications, over-the-counter products, home remedies, and lifestyle changes.
If you have a mild case of toenail fungus, you may be able to treat it yourself. But if the infection is severe or doesn’t improve with home treatment, it’s important to see a doctor. They can diagnose the infection and recommend the best treatment option for you. You should also seek medical attention if you notice any signs of a secondary infection, such as pus or drainage.
Remember that keeping your feet clean and dry and taking preventive measures can help keep your feet healthy and fungus-free.