Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that can affect your toenails or your fingernails. It’s not a pretty condition. Nail fungus can cause nails to become discolored, thick, and even crumbly. If you have it, you probably want to get rid of it.
And you’re not alone. Nail fungus is a very common condition, affecting a large percentage of the population.
The process of nail fungus eliminator focuses on getting rid of the infection and restoring your nails to their former, healthy appearance. This article explores ways to eliminate nail fungus, and what to expect along the way.
What is nail fungus? Causes, symptoms, and diagnosis
Nail fungus is not only unsightly but also a surprisingly common condition. Before we dive into how to eliminate it, let’s get a handle on what it is and how it takes hold.
What causes nail fungus?
Fungi love warm, moist environments. That’s why they thrive under your toenails. The most common culprits are dermatophytes, but yeasts and molds can also be responsible.
Who is at risk?
Several factors increase your chances of getting nail fungus:
- Older age
- Diabetes
- Weakened immune system
- Poor hygiene
- Nail injuries
- Wearing shoes that don’t breathe well
What are the symptoms?
Keep an eye out for these visual cues:
- Thickening of the nail
- Discoloration (yellow, white, or brown)
- Brittle or crumbly nails
- Distorted nail shape
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
You might also experience pain, discomfort, or a foul odor.
How is nail fungus diagnosed?
A doctor will visually examine your nails. To confirm the diagnosis, they’ll likely take a nail clipping for microscopic examination or send it for a fungal culture to pinpoint the specific fungus.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments for Nail Fungus
If you think you have nail fungus, you might want to try an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment before you see a doctor. These medications are available without a prescription at your local drugstore.
Topical Antifungal Medications
Many topical antifungal medications are available, including those with these active ingredients:
- Tolnaftate
- Clotrimazole
- Miconazole
You apply these treatments directly to the affected nail. They aim to kill the fungus on the surface. Unfortunately, OTC topical treatments don’t always work, especially for severe infections. You may also have to use them for a long time to see results.
Nail Lacquers and Solutions
Nail lacquers and solutions are designed for nail application. You paint them on like nail polish. They contain antifungal agents in a lacquer or solution base.
You usually apply them daily or weekly, according to the product’s instructions.
These treatments may be more effective than creams for some infections, but they still may not penetrate deep enough to reach the source of the infection.
Other OTC Options
You can also find nail files and clippers designed to trim and thin the affected nail. This can help improve the nail’s appearance. But these tools don’t treat the infection itself.
Some people use tea tree oil as a natural remedy for nail fungus. But there’s not much scientific evidence that it works.
What if over-the-counter treatments don’t work?
If you’ve tried some over-the-counter treatments and haven’t seen the results you’re hoping for, it may be time to talk with your doctor about prescription treatments.
Oral antifungal medications
Common prescription oral antifungals include:
- Terbinafine
- Itraconazole
- Fluconazole
These medications are taken by mouth and travel through your bloodstream to attack the infection.
Keep in mind that oral antifungals can have side effects and risks, such as:
- liver damage
- interactions with other drugs you’re taking
For these reasons, your doctor may order regular blood tests while you’re taking an oral antifungal.
Prescription topical medications
A stronger topical antifungal, ciclopirox, is available by prescription.
Prescription topicals have a higher concentration of active ingredients, which means they may be more effective than over-the-counter options.
Laser treatment for nail fungus
Laser treatment uses targeted laser energy to kill the fungus.
The good news is that laser treatment is non-invasive and has minimal side effects.
However, laser treatment can be expensive and may require multiple sessions. Also, it doesn’t always work.
Surgical nail removal
In severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments, surgical nail removal may be necessary.
In this procedure, the infected nail is surgically removed.
After the surgery, you can expect some pain and discomfort. There’s also a risk of infection, and the nail may grow back in an abnormal way.
Home remedies and lifestyle changes to support nail fungus elimination
While prescription and over-the-counter treatments are available, you can also try these home remedies and lifestyle changes to help eliminate nail fungus.
Good hygiene practices
One of the best things you can do is simply keep your feet clean and dry.
- Wash your feet regularly with soap and water.
- Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, as fungus loves moist environments.
- Wear breathable socks and shoes to allow air to circulate. Choose socks made of moisture-wicking materials and avoid tight-fitting shoes that can trap moisture.
- Disinfect your shoes regularly with antifungal sprays or powders to kill any lingering fungus.
Dietary considerations
What you eat can also play a role in fighting off nail fungus. Focus on foods that support a healthy immune system, such as fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and antioxidants. At the same time, limit your intake of sugar and processed foods, as these can weaken your immune system and make it harder to fight off the infection.
Natural remedies
Some people swear by natural remedies for nail fungus, although scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited, including the effectiveness of fungus drops for nails.
- Vinegar soaks are a popular option, but if you’re looking for alternatives to fight toenail fungus, is boric acid the right choice? Soak your feet in a solution of vinegar and water for about 20 minutes a day.
- Garlic is another natural remedy that some people find helpful. Apply crushed garlic to the affected nail and leave it on for about 30 minutes.
- Essential oils like tea tree oil, lavender oil, and oregano oil may have antifungal properties. However, it’s important to use them with caution and dilute them properly before applying them to your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What one cup of this will destroy your nail fungus?
Let’s be clear: there’s no single “magic cup” that instantly eradicates nail fungus. Claims like these are often misleading. While some home remedies, like diluted vinegar or tea tree oil soaks, may offer some benefit, they’re rarely a complete solution. Always consult with a doctor or podiatrist for effective treatment options.
What is the active ingredient that kills nail fungus?
Several active ingredients are used in antifungal medications. Common ones include terbinafine, itraconazole, and ciclopirox. These ingredients work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, preventing the fungus from growing and spreading. The specific ingredient and delivery method (oral medication, topical solution, etc.) will depend on the severity of the infection.
What is the most effective treatment for toenail fungus?
The “most effective” treatment varies based on the individual and the severity of the fungal infection. Oral antifungal medications are often considered the most effective, but they carry potential side effects. Topical treatments are generally safer but may require longer treatment durations and are less effective for severe infections. Laser therapy is a newer option showing promise.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Don’t ignore it! Untreated toenail fungus can worsen and spread to other nails or even other people. Avoid sharing nail clippers or files. Don’t try to self-diagnose and treat with unproven remedies. And definitely don’t pick at or try to cut out the infected nail, as this can lead to further complications.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can worsen toenail fungus. These include wearing tight shoes that trap moisture, having poor foot hygiene, walking barefoot in public places (like pools or locker rooms), having a weakened immune system, and underlying health conditions like diabetes. Trauma to the nail can also make it more susceptible to infection.
Summary
Getting rid of nail fungus takes time and consistency. You can’t just dab on a treatment once and expect your nails to clear up overnight. To get the best results, you have to stick with it.
You can also keep nail fungus from coming back by practicing good hygiene, wearing shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breathe, and leading a healthy lifestyle. Keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms and swimming pools to fix ugly toenails and maintain healthy feet.
The best way to treat nail fungus is to talk to your doctor. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best treatment for you. Nail fungus can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious condition, so it’s always a good idea to get it checked out.
With the right treatment and a little bit of prevention, you can get rid of nail fungus and keep your nails healthy and looking their best.