Toenail fungus, known medically as onychomycosis, is a common and stubborn infection that can affect anyone. It can be embarrassing, uncomfortable, and impact your overall quality of life.
There are many different approaches to treating toenail fungus, ranging from over-the-counter remedies you can try at home to professional medical interventions prescribed by a doctor.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of toenail fungus, the treatments available, and when it might be time to seek professional help, especially considering options like Neoclear for toenail fungus.
Types of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus comes in several forms:
- Distal subungual onychomycosis is the most common type. It starts at the edge of the nail and spreads toward the cuticle.
- White superficial onychomycosis affects the surface of the nail, resulting in white spots or patches on the nail plate.
- Proximal subungual onychomycosis begins at the cuticle and spreads outward. This type is more common in people with weakened immune systems.
- Candida onychomycosis is caused by a yeast infection. It can affect both fingernails and toenails.
- Total dystrophic onychomycosis is the most severe form, causing complete thickening and deformation of the nail.
What about those over-the-counter treatments?
There are some products you can get without a prescription that are designed to treat toenail fungus.
Antifungal nail polish
These topical treatments need to be applied to the affected toenail regularly over a long period. You’ll need to be patient and persistent if you choose this method.
Other topical antifungal medications
You can find various antifungal creams and solutions at your local drugstore. These are often used along with other treatments to help combat the infection, but it’s important to research brands like Dermachom Nail Fungus and what the reviews don’t tell you.
Limits of over-the-counter treatments
Keep in mind that these over-the-counter options might not be strong enough to tackle severe infections, and it could take a long time to see any noticeable changes.
Home Laser Treatment: Convenience, Affordability, and Effectiveness
If you’re looking for a way to treat toenail fungus in the comfort of your own home, you might consider a home laser device, like the KTS Nail Fungus Laser. Keep in mind that these devices aren’t as strong as the professional lasers you’d get at a clinic.
The upside is you can use them whenever you want, without having to schedule appointments. They’re also a lot cheaper than professional treatments.
As for side effects, they’re usually pretty minimal. You might experience some temporary redness or discomfort.
But what about effectiveness? Home laser treatments can help reduce symptoms and promote healing, but they might not completely get rid of the fungus. If you decide to try one, make sure you choose a reputable brand and follow the instructions carefully.
When to seek professional help
If you’ve been trying home remedies for a few weeks and you’re not seeing any improvement, it’s time to call a podiatrist or another healthcare professional. You should also seek professional help if you have any pain, if the symptoms are severe (like black nail fungus), or if you have underlying health issues such as diabetes.
A professional can offer treatment options such as:
- Oral antifungal medications
- Professional laser treatment
- Surgical removal of the nail (in severe cases)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide might have some antifungal properties, but it’s generally not considered a highly effective treatment for toenail fungus on its own. It could help to lighten the nail, but it’s unlikely to penetrate deeply enough to kill the fungus completely. It’s best used as part of a broader treatment plan recommended by a doctor.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
Wearing socks to bed with toenail fungus is a bit of a double-edged sword. Clean, breathable cotton socks can help absorb moisture and keep the area dry, which is good. However, if your feet sweat, the socks could create a warm, damp environment where fungus thrives. If you wear socks, make sure they are clean and change them if they get damp. Consider wearing socks treated with antifungal properties.
What happens if you have toenail fungus for too long?
Ignoring toenail fungus for an extended period can lead to a few issues. The infection can spread to other nails or even your skin. The nail can thicken, become discolored, and even detach from the nail bed, causing pain and discomfort. Long-term infections are also more difficult to treat effectively.
What do podiatrists recommend for toenail fungus?
Podiatrists usually recommend a combination of approaches depending on the severity of the infection. These may include prescription topical antifungal medications, oral antifungal medications (for more severe cases) like Terbinafine and Ciclopirox, laser treatments like NeoClear, or, in extreme situations, surgical nail removal. They’ll assess your specific situation and create a tailored treatment plan.
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
There’s no guaranteed “permanent” cure, as reinfection is always possible. However, oral antifungal medications often have the highest success rates for completely eradicating the fungus. Laser treatments like NeoClear aim to kill the fungus at its source, and ongoing preventative measures like good foot hygiene and antifungal sprays can help prevent recurrence.
Final Thoughts
Toenail fungus can be unsightly and stubborn. Before you decide on a treatment, it’s important to understand which type of fungus you’re dealing with and what your treatment options are. While over-the-counter options exist, they may not be effective for severe infections.
When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to seek professional help. A healthcare provider can give you personalized advice and treatment options that are right for you.