Fungal nail infections, also called onychomycosis, are a common problem that can affect your toenails and your fingernails. When you have a fungal infection, your nails can change color, thicken, and even start to crumble. It’s not pretty, and it can be uncomfortable, too.
It’s important to take care of fungal nail infections, because if you don’t treat them, they can get worse and even spread to other nails. There are several ways to treat nail fungus, including over-the-counter (OTC) products and prescription medications that you get from your doctor.
One popular over-the-counter treatment is a product called Fungi Nail. Read an expert guide on using a Fungi Nail pen to treat your fungal nail infection.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
How to know if you have a fungal nail infection
If you’re going to treat a nail fungus, it’s important to be sure that’s really what you have.
Signs of a nail fungus
If you have a nail fungus, you might notice:
- Discoloration: Streaks or spots that are yellow, white, or brown on the nail. These often start at the edge of the nail.
- Thickening: The nail gets thicker than usual, and it can be hard to trim. Thick nails can make your shoes uncomfortable.
- Brittleness and crumbling: The nail gets fragile and breaks easily. Sometimes, the nail separates from the nail bed altogether. That’s a condition called onycholysis.
- Distorted shape: The shape of the nail changes and looks irregular or deformed. The fungus can change the structure of the nail itself.
Other conditions that look like nail fungus
It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis because other conditions can mimic fungal infections. Nail psoriasis, bacterial infections, and injuries can cause similar symptoms. If you’re not sure, it’s best to see a doctor or podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
How to prepare for Fungi Nail treatment
Fungi Nail is an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine that can help clear up a nail fungus infection. Here’s what you’ll need to do before you get started.
Gather your supplies
- Fungi Nail solution. Make sure you have a new bottle or that you’ve stored the bottle properly. Check the expiration date before you begin.
- Nail clippers and file. You’ll need these to trim and file the affected nail. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t use the same clippers and files on your healthy nails that you use on your infected nails. You could spread the infection.
- Cotton swabs or applicator brush. You can use either of these to apply the Fungi Nail solution. A disposable applicator can help prevent contamination.
- Mild soap and water. You’ll need these to clean the area you’re treating. Don’t use harsh soaps or chemicals that could irritate the skin.
Prepare the affected nail
- Trim the nail. Trim away any extra nail, especially if the area is thick. Cut straight across to avoid ingrown nails.
- File the nail surface. Gently file the surface to thin the nail. This will help the medicine penetrate the nail and get to the infection. File in one direction to avoid damaging the nail.
- Clean the affected area. Wash the nail and the skin around it with mild soap and water. Then, dry the area well before you put on any medicine.
How to apply Fungi Nail solution
Here’s how to use Fungi Nail solution, step-by-step:
- Read the label. Seriously, read it! Make sure you understand how much to use and how often to use it.
- Apply the solution to the affected nail. Use a cotton swab or the brush applicator to spread a thin layer over the entire nail. Try to get the solution under the nail, if you can.
- Let it dry. This usually takes a few minutes. Don’t put on socks or shoes until it’s completely dry.
- How often do I apply it? Usually, you’ll put it on twice a day — morning and night. You’ll have to keep applying it for weeks or even months, depending on how bad the infection is.
Here are some things to keep in mind as you apply Fungi Nail:
- Don’t get it in your eyes or on your mucous membranes (like inside your nose).
- Wash your hands after you apply it.
- Don’t put it on broken skin.
Maintaining proper foot hygiene during treatment
While you’re treating your nail fungus with Fungi-Nail, consider consumer reports and ratings to ensure it’s worth buying and maintain good foot hygiene to avoid further infection and to help your treatment work more effectively. Here’s how:
- Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes.
- Wear breathable socks and shoes. Choose socks made of cotton or other moisture-wicking materials. Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes that can trap moisture.
- Change your socks regularly. Change your socks at least once a day, or more often if they become damp.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places. Wear sandals or shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools to prevent reinfection.
- Disinfect your shoes regularly. Use a disinfectant spray or powder to kill any lingering fungus in your shoes.
Monitoring Progress and Potential Side Effects
The best signs that Fungi-Nail is working are gradual improvements to the appearance of your nail. Look for the nail to slowly clear up, get thinner, and improve in color. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t notice an immediate change. It could take several months to see results.
Some people experience mild skin irritation, redness, or a burning feeling when using Fungi-Nail. If you have severe irritation, stop using the product and talk to your doctor.
Also, contact your doctor if:
- The infection gets worse or doesn’t improve after several weeks of treatment.
- You have any weird or unusual side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Resist the urge to completely remove a fungal toenail yourself! While trimming away loose or overgrown portions is helpful, attempting to cut off the entire nail can lead to infection and further complications. A podiatrist can safely debride the nail if necessary.
What not to do with nail fungus?
Avoid ignoring it! Nail fungus rarely resolves on its own. Also, don’t share nail clippers or files, and avoid wearing tight shoes that trap moisture. Picking at the infected nail can also worsen the condition and spread the fungus.
Is toenail fungus contagious in bed?
Toenail fungus can be contagious, so while the risk in bed is relatively low, it’s still present. Sharing bedding with someone who has a fungal infection could potentially spread the fungus. Good hygiene practices are always recommended.
What is the sock trick for toenail fungus?
There’s no specific “sock trick” that cures toenail fungus. However, wearing clean, breathable socks made of moisture-wicking materials (like cotton or wool) can help create a less favorable environment for fungal growth. Change your socks daily, and more often if your feet sweat excessively.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
Wearing clean socks to bed can be beneficial if you tend to sweat at night, as it helps absorb moisture. However, if your feet are normally dry, it’s not essential. The key is to keep your feet clean and dry as much as possible, regardless of whether you wear socks to bed or not.
Putting It All Together
No matter what treatment you and your doctor decide on, you’ll need to follow the treatment plan consistently to get the best results. This might mean applying a topical medication or taking a pill every day for months.
To prevent future infections, practice good foot hygiene. Wear shoes that breathe, and don’t walk barefoot in public places like gyms and swimming pools.
The information in this article is for general information only. It’s not a substitute for medical advice from a professional. Talk with your doctor about any concerns you have about nail fungus and the best treatment plan for you.