What Is Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus is a fungal infection of the toenails that can cause the nails to become thick, yellow, or brittle. It is usually caused by a type of fungus called dermatophyte.
What Are The Common Signs Of Toenail Fungus?
The common signs of toenail fungus are discoloration, brittleness, and crumbling of the nails. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor so that they can diagnose the problem and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
What Are The Available Antibiotics And Anti-Fungal Remedies For Treating Toenail Fungus?
Healthcare professionals recommend the use of antibiotics and anti-fungal remedies to treat toenail fungus. Topical treatments containing antifungal ingredients, such as zinc undecylenate, terbinafine and efinaconazole, are good options for treating toenail fungus.
Products that are easy to use and have a long shelf life are also recommended. Over-the-counter medications can be used, but it is always advisable to consult a doctor before beginning any treatment regimen.
Various forms of antibiotics and anti-fungal remedies may be prescribed according to the severity of the infection. While these treatments may be expensive, there are some affordable options available as well.
What Types Of Creams Can Be Used For Toenail Fungus Treatment?
Dermatologists often recommend a combination of oral and topical medications to treat toenail fungus. To find the best treatment options, one can search the internet for well-rated OTC creams. These creams typically contain urea and bifonazole, which have anti-fungal effects.
Some examples of these creams are medicated soaks, scrubs, and topical treatments like bandages that are used in combination with each other.
Other treatments involve soaking the toe or finger in water for 10 minutes, drying it, applying the cream, and then covering the nail with a bandage before scraping off the nail after 14 days.
Finally, a bifonazole cream should be used for an additional four weeks to complete treatment.
How Do You Properly Apply These Treatments And Creams?
It is important to properly apply treatments and creams for toenail fungus in order to maximize the effectiveness of the medication.
The topical solution should be applied over all affected nails, under the nail and on the skin beneath it, and then wiped off from the bottle cap and neck. This should be done every 14 days for four weeks, or longer if necessary.
In addition, once a week it is important to remove any of the topical solution from your nails with a cotton square or tissue soaked in rubbing alcohol. Finally, using scissors, nail clippers or files can help remove as much of the existing fungus-affected nail as possible.
How Does The 7-Day Toenail Fungus Solution Work?
The 7-Day Toenail Fungus Solution is designed to work by penetrating the nail bed and killing the fungus. The product contains zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid, which are both FDA-approved to treat toenail fungus.
Other medications such as efinaconazole can also be prescribed to treat toenail fungus.
What Is The 7-Day Toenail Fungus Solution?
The 7-Day Toenail Fungus Solution is a combination of treatments and remedies designed to eliminate the fungus that causes toenail fungus. This solution uses a blend of undecylenic acid, tea tree, lavender oil, menthol rub, eucalyptus oil, and camphor. It should be applied daily for best results and users should expect to be patient as results may take several weeks or more.
What Are The Main Ingredients In The 7-Day Toenail Fungus Solution?
The 7-Day Toenail Fungus Solution contains two main ingredients: undecylenic acid (10%) and zinc undecylenate. The solution is meant to be applied to the cuticle and around each infected nail twice a day. It has been prescribed by dermatologists and is a member of the “azole” family of medications.
How Can I Prevent Toenail Fungus?
To prevent toenail fungus, it is important to practice good hygiene and nail care. This includes:
- Regularly trimming and filing nails with a toenail clipper and an Emory board
- Washing socks and shoes regularly
- Avoiding sugar and processed foods in one’s diet
- Drinking plenty of water
- Exercising regularly to reduce stress
- Keeping nails short and thin so that antifungal solutions can penetrate the nail
- Using home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide, or ozoneated oils.
With these tips in mind, one can better protect themselves against developing a fungal infection of their toes.
Lifestyle And Home Remedies
At-home remedies for toenail fungus are not regulated or approved by the FDA, but some people opt to use essential oils as a treatment. Essential oils have natural antibacterial and antifungal properties and can be added to carrier oil and applied directly on the affected nail. People can also add two to three drops of essential oils of their choice into footbaths to help treat the fungus.
Alternative Medicines
Alternative treatments for toenail fungus include the use of essential oils, such as tea tree oil and lavender oil. These oils can be added to footbaths or applied directly onto the toenails. It is important to dilute these essential oils before applying them directly onto the skin or using them in a footbath.
1. Menthol Rub
A menthol rub is a topical ointment that has been found to have a “positive clinical effect” when used for treating toenail fungus. It can be used on its own, or in combination with other treatments. Vicks VapoRub is easily available for purchase online.
2. Snakeroot extract
Snakeroot extract is a naturally derived antifungal that is often used to treat toenail fungus. It is applied directly to the affected nail, and should be done two to three times a week for several months in order to see results. When used as directed, this natural remedy can significantly reduce symptoms of fungal infection and help get rid of the infection altogether.
3. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is effective in fighting toenail fungus because it contains anti-fungal properties. These properties help to kill off the fungus, thus reducing the symptoms associated with toenail fungus such as discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the affected nails. In addition to this, tea tree oil is also known for its antiseptic and healing properties which can help soothe any irritated skin or other discomfort caused by toenail fungus.
4. Oregano oil
Research has demonstrated that oregano oil is effective in treating toenail fungus due to its thymol content, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties, as well as its ozonated oils like olive and sunflower oil, which contain ozone gas that helps to kill bacteria and stimulate skin cells.
5. Olive leaf extract
Olive leaf extract is a natural substance believed to have antifungal, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties. It is available in topical creams and salves which can be applied directly to affected nails, as well as oral capsules which may help treat toenail fungus systemically by boosting the immune system. The active ingredient in olive leaf extract is oleuropein, an antifungal and antimicrobial compound which has been studied for its potential to fight fungal infections.
6. Ozonized oils
Ozonized oils are a type of oil that has been injected with ozone gas. This ozone gas helps to inactivate many organisms, making it an effective treatment for toenail fungus. Ozonized oils can be applied twice a day and should be gently massaged into the skin and nails around the toe. By doing this, it can help reduce and eliminate any toenail fungus present on the skin or nails.
7. Vinegar
Vinegar is believed to be effective in treating toenail fungus due to its high acidity level. The acidic nature of vinegar may help reduce the growth of fungal spores, killing them off and ultimately reducing the severity of the infection. It has also been suggested that vinegar’s antimicrobial properties may help stop the spread of infection and further limit the effects of fungal growth on nails.
8. Garlic
Garlic is known to possess antimicrobial properties, making it a potential remedy for treating toenail fungus. It can be taken orally as an effective treatment for a variety of different conditions. Those taking garlic should consider consulting with their physician prior to use, as it may not be suitable for those with certain health issues, such as pregnant women and people with heart disease or taking other medications. When used properly according to instructions on the product’s label, garlic can be an effective remedy for treating toenail fungus.
9. Adjust your diet
It is believed that eating a healthy diet can help the body fight off toenail fungus. Eating a balanced diet with adequate protein, calcium and vitamin D may help reduce the risk of brittle nails, while probiotic-rich yogurt may provide the nutrients necessary for fighting toenail fungus. However, it’s important to check with one’s doctor before making significant changes in dietary habits.
Unsafe home remedies for toenail fungus
Some home remedies for toenail fungus can be unsafe because they can lead to infection and even surgery.
Bleach, hot water, and urine should never be used in an attempt to get rid of toenail fungus as these are not effective treatments.
Additionally, if the fungus is not treated it can become more severe and cause infection. It is recommended that individuals seek advice from a doctor or use over-the-counter medications or prescription drugs which have been proven safe and effective in treating toenail fungus.
Over-The-Counter Toenail Fungus Treatment Options
Mouthwash
Mouthwash is designed to kill germs in the mouth. It can also be used to treat toenail fungus infections. When used as a foot bath, Listerine can help reduce or even eliminate the occurrence of fungal nail infections. To use it as a treatment, one should soak the affected nail in Listerine for 30 minutes each day and apply it twice daily for best results.
Athlete’s foot medication
People suffering from toenail fungus have a variety of over-the-counter treatment options available to them. These treatments include sprays, powders, creams, tea tree oil products and eucalyptus soap designed to soothe the skin and balance natural oils. These products can also help treat athlete’s foot and other fungal infections while preventing acne.
Side Effects Of Toenail Fungus Medication
People should be aware of the potential side effects of toenail fungus medications, which can range from mild skin irritation or burning to the serious liver or gastrointestinal damage. Homeopathic remedies are generally safe with few side effects, but topical treatments may cause burns and blisters. It’s important to begin treatment as soon as possible in order to avoid worsening symptoms, and in some cases, a dermatologist may be needed for more potent prescriptions.
Toenail Fungus Treatment Complications
When treating toenail fungus with prescription-strength products or by a dermatologist, there is the potential for serious complications. Possible complications may include upset stomach, dizziness, severe skin problems, and jaundice. Furthermore, if home remedies are used instead of prescriptions, they must be used carefully as they can cause further complications such as an allergic reaction or skin irritation.
Diabetes Advice
If someone has diabetes and a toenail fungal infection, it is best for them to see a foot specialist. They should also speak to their doctor before trying any new treatments or home remedies. Toenail fungus and diabetes are linked, so there are various treatment options available, including both over-the-counter medications and prescription medications. If the toenail fungus is causing any pain or discomfort, it is advised for them to consult a dermatologist.
Non-Urgent Advice: See A GP
Someone might see a GP for toenail fungus if they are embarrassed by the appearance of their toenails, experiencing pain or discomfort, or in case of an emergency. The GP may recommend treatment with antifungal medication and it is important to keep a written list of all medicines and supplements being taken with the person at all times.
A Pharmacist Can Help With Fungal Nail Infections
It is important to seek medical help when treating toenail fungus because the infection can be difficult to diagnose and may require a sample of the nail or other tests to determine the best course of treatment. Medications for toenail fungus can have side effects, so it is important to consult with a doctor in order to ensure that the benefits of treatment outweigh any potential risks. Additionally, if left untreated, the infection may spread and worsen, leading to more serious infections.
Other Treatment For A Fungal Nail Infection From A GP
Other treatments for fungal nail infection include laser therapy, which may be expensive and might not be covered by insurance. There are several FDA-approved devices available for the topical treatment of fungal nail infections. Treatment sets with two creams and a spatula can also be used, consisting of scraping away the infected part of the nail followed by four weeks of treatment with a bifonazole cream. This treatment is carried out over 14 days.