Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that can affect your fingernails or toenails, though it’s more common in the toenails, especially if you frequently use press on nails and don’t take preventative measures.
One of the most frustrating things about nail fungus is how difficult it is to get rid of for good. You treat it, think it’s gone, and then — bam! — it’s back. So, what gives?
This article will explore some of the reasons why nail fungus keeps coming back and what you can do to prevent it and manage it effectively.
What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection of the nail. Various organisms can cause it, including dermatophytes, yeast, and molds.
Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
- Discoloration (yellowish or brownish) can sometimes indicate a fungal infection, or in other cases, something like green nails.
- Thickening of the nail
- Brittleness, crumbling, or ragged edges
- Possible separation of the nail from the nail bed
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if:
- Your symptoms don’t get better with home treatment.
- You have pain or discomfort that affects your daily activities.
- The infection spreads to other nails or skin.
- You have underlying conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system.
Why nail fungus keeps coming back: The stubborn nature of the infection
Nail fungus can be a real pain to get rid of. Even after treatment, it often comes back, and here’s why:
Favorable environment
Fungus loves warm, moist places like the inside of your shoes. Public pools, locker rooms, and showers are also common places to pick up the infection.
Difficult to reach
Nails are thick, so it’s hard for creams and other topical medications to really get in there and do their job. The fungus lives deep down in the nail bed, where it’s hard to reach.
If you have poor circulation in your toes, it’s harder for your immune system to fight the infection.
Incomplete treatment
If you stop taking your medicine too soon, any remaining fungal spores can start to grow again.
You can also get reinfected from contaminated shoes, socks, or other surfaces.
Untreated underlying conditions
If you have athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), it can lead to reinfection of your toenails. Also, people with diabetes or weakened immune systems are more likely to get nail fungus and have it keep coming back.
What can you do about recurring nail fungus?
Unfortunately, nail fungus can be stubborn. Here are some of the most effective strategies for treating it.
Early intervention
As with many conditions, the earlier you treat it, the better your chances of getting rid of nail fungus.
If you catch it early, topical antifungal creams, gels, and lacquers may be enough to clear up the infection.
Prescription medications
If the infection is more severe, your doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications. These medications go to work throughout your body to eliminate the fungus.
Be sure to discuss any potential side effects with your doctor.
Nail removal
In some situations, the best course of action is to remove all or part of the infected nail. This allows you to apply antifungal medications directly to the nail bed.
Combination therapy
Sometimes, the best approach is to combine treatments, including exploring options like boric acid to fight toenail fungus. Using both topical and oral medications can boost your chance of success. Laser therapy can also be effective, but more research is needed.
Prevention strategies: Breaking the cycle
Nail fungus can be stubborn, so it’s important to take steps to prevent repeat infections.
Foot hygiene
- Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between your toes.
- Wash your feet every day with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly after washing.
Nail care
- Trim your nails straight across and file down any areas that have become thick.
- Disinfect your nail clippers after each use.
Protective measures
- Wear socks that absorb sweat, and change them often.
- Choose shoes that let your feet breathe.
- Use an antifungal foot powder.
- Wear flip-flops or shower shoes when you’re in public places like pools and locker rooms.
Shoe hygiene
- Disinfect your shoes regularly, especially if you’ve had nail fungus before.
- If you have a history of nail fungus, think about replacing older shoes that might be harboring the fungus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills nail fungus the fastest?
Oral antifungal medications are generally considered the fastest way to kill nail fungus, but they require a prescription and can have potential side effects. Topical treatments take longer but have fewer systemic risks. Laser therapy is another option, but its effectiveness can vary.
What deficiency causes nail fungus?
While no single deficiency directly causes nail fungus, a weakened immune system due to nutritional deficiencies (like iron or zinc) can make you more susceptible to infection. Maintaining a balanced diet is important for overall health and immune function.
Why does my fungal nail keep coming back?
Recurrent nail fungus is common due to several factors: incomplete treatment, reinfection from contaminated shoes or environments, underlying health conditions (like diabetes), or genetic predisposition. Thorough treatment and preventative measures are essential.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which have some antifungal properties. While not as potent as prescription medications, anecdotal evidence suggests it can help inhibit fungal growth in some cases, but it’s unlikely to eradicate a severe infection completely.
What kills fungus completely?
Complete eradication of nail fungus often requires a multi-pronged approach. Oral antifungal medications are typically the most effective, especially when combined with topical treatments and diligent hygiene practices. Laser therapy can also be helpful. Success depends on the severity of the infection and adherence to the treatment plan.
Conclusion
Nail fungus can be frustrating because it’s hard to get rid of and tends to come back. This is because the fungus itself is tough, and the conditions in your shoes and on your feet are often perfect for it to grow.
The best way to avoid future infections is to be consistent with good hygiene and take steps to prevent the fungus from growing. If you have a bad case of nail fungus or it just keeps coming back, see a doctor. The sooner you get diagnosed and treated, the better your chances of getting rid of it for good.
With the right care and treatment, you can beat recurring nail fungus.