Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that causes your toenails to become discolored, thick, and even crumbly. It’s not pretty, and it can be persistent.
One way to understand what’s possible when you treat toenail fungus is to look at fungi nail before and after photos. These photos can show you the potential results of different treatments and give you a better idea of what to expect.
Understanding toenail fungus
Toenail fungus is a common condition, and it can be stubborn to treat. It’s often caused by dermatophytes, molds, and yeasts that thrive in dark, moist environments like the inside of your shoes. Some things can make you more prone to it, such as age, diabetes, poor circulation, and nail injuries.
Toenail fungus usually causes:
- discoloration
- thickening
- brittleness
- separation from the nail bed
When you visit a healthcare professional, they will examine your feet and run lab tests to see whether a fungus is causing the problem. It’s important to get the right diagnosis, because some other conditions can look like toenail fungus.
Treatment Options and Visual Results
Toenail fungus is a common problem that can affect the look and feel of your feet. If you’re looking for ways to get rid of it, there are several treatment options:
- Topical medications
- Oral medications
- Laser treatment
- Surgical removal
One treatment option that’s easy to understand is laser treatment, but other treatments like Fungicure are also available. A podiatrist uses light energy to kill the fungus. The treatment is effective, and the proof is in the before and after photos. You can see the progress patients have made. Keep in mind that people will improve at different rates, and it can take anywhere from 3 to 10 months to see the results.
Many podiatrists will show you examples of laser treatment success by presenting patient case studies with dates and photos so you can see how the treatments worked.
Things to keep in mind
First and foremost, keep in mind that treating toenail fungus is a marathon, not a sprint. The length of treatment varies from person to person, so it’s important to be patient and stick to your treatment plan to get the best results.
Also, even though the risks are minimal, you should discuss any potential side effects with your doctor before beginning treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one cure for toenail fungus?
There’s no single “magic bullet” cure for toenail fungus. The most effective treatments often involve prescription oral antifungal medications, but these can have side effects. Topical antifungal medications, such as EMUAIDMAX®: Maximum Strength Nail Fungus Treatment, are another option, although they may take longer to work. Laser therapy is also sometimes used. The best approach depends on the severity of the infection and should be determined with a doctor.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which have antifungal properties, much like garlic, a natural treatment. While it might not completely eradicate the fungus, some people find that it helps to reduce symptoms and slow the spread of the infection. It’s generally considered a complementary treatment rather than a primary cure.
Is it good to cut off nail with fungus?
It’s generally not recommended to cut off a nail infected with fungus yourself. Trimming the nail can help to reduce pressure and discomfort, but it’s essential to do it carefully to avoid injury or further infection. A podiatrist can safely trim or debride the nail to remove infected portions and allow topical treatments to penetrate better.
Do I need to throw away my shoes if I have toenail fungus?
Fungus can thrive in shoes, so it’s a good idea to disinfect them regularly. You can use antifungal sprays or powders. While you don’t necessarily need to throw away all your shoes, it’s a good idea to discard older, heavily worn shoes that may harbor a lot of fungus. Choose breathable footwear to help prevent recurrence.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
Wearing clean, breathable socks to bed can help absorb moisture and prevent the spread of fungus. Change your socks daily and avoid wearing the same pair for more than one day in a row. Opt for cotton or wool socks, as they tend to be more breathable than synthetic materials. Ensure your feet are completely dry before putting on socks.
In Summary
Before and after photos are a great way to see how well a certain treatment might work for you. However, you should always talk to a doctor or other health professional about your specific situation. They’ll be able to give you advice that’s tailored to your needs and help you find the best way to treat your fungal nail infection.