Although treatment is usually sought for cosmetic reasons, nail fungus can be serious and should be treated. For example, if it is a severe infection, it can cause permanent damage to your nails. The infection can also spread beyond your nails, especially if you are in a high risk group, such as people with diabetes or impaired immune systems. High-risk people can develop cellulitis, a skin tissue infection, if toe fungus isn’t treated. [5] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Toenail fungus is caused by fungi such as trichophyton rubrum. It is also caused by non-dermatophyte molds and yeast, most commonly from the Candida species. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source
You can also try itraconazole (Sporanox), which is usually prescribed with a dose of 200 mg a day for 12 weeks. Side effects can include nausea, rash, or liver enzyme abnormalities. It should not be used if you have liver issues. Sporanox also has interactions with over 170 different drugs such as Vicodin and Prograf. Check with your doctor to ensure any medication you are taking does not interfere with it. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source Before getting any prescription, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, a history of depression, a weak immune system, or an autoimmune disorder. These medications may cause liver toxicity.
You can try Ciclopirox, which is an 8% solution is usually applied daily for 48 weeks. [9] X Research source You can also try the more recent medication Jublia, which is a 10% solution that is also applied daily for 48 weeks. Topical prescriptions may be effective if the infection does not involve the nail matrix, the layer of cells at the base of the nail. Your doctor will let you know if your infection has expanded to include the nail matrix.
Total nail removal is not commonly needed. [10] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Generally doctors apply urea ointment and cover it with a dressing. This softens the nail over a period of 7-10 days after which the doctor can easily remove the diseased portion of the nail. It is usually a painless procedure. [11] X Research source
This treatment is still largely experimental. Until further studies are conducted, laser treatment is not recommended for routine use.
Your infection may go away before 48 weeks, but continue for a few weeks after signs of your infection go away to ensure it is cured.
Make sure your nail is clean and dry before application. Apply a small amount tea tree oil solution with a cotton swab to affected area twice a day for up to 6 months.
Although one study supported the use of snakeroot for onychomycosis more research needs to be done to determine whether it is safe and effective. Snakeroot leaf extract is not commonly available in the US. It is a traditional Mexican remedy and is more commonly found in Mexico. [18] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source [19] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
You should wear clean, absorbent socks. Wool, nylon, and polypropylene are materials that help keep your feet dry. You should also change your socks often. You should discard old shoes after you get rid of your fungus. They can contain remnants of the fungi. You can also wear open toe shoes to help reduce moisture. Do not share nail clippers or tools used for manicures and pedicures. Choose nail salons carefully. Use antifungal powder or spray to help reduce your chances of infection. Avoid wearing nail polish or using artificial products on your nails. This can trap moisture and provide a damp area for fungus to grow.
