If left untreated, nail fungus can spread and cause pain or permanent nail damage. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to help eliminate the infection and restore healthy nails.
What Causes Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus occurs when fungi invade the nail bed, usually through cracks in the nail or skin. The most common types of fungi that cause infections are:
- Dermatophytes: Fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments such as showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms.
- Yeasts and molds: These can also contribute to nail infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing nail fungus, including:
- Walking barefoot in public areas like gyms, pools, and locker rooms
- Wearing tight or non-breathable shoes that trap moisture
- Having sweaty feet or poor foot hygiene
- Having diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system
- Previous nail injuries that create entry points for fungi
Symptoms of Nail Fungus
Fungal nail infections develop gradually, and early detection can make treatment more effective. Common symptoms include:
- Yellow, brown, or white discoloration of the nail
- Thickened or brittle nails that break easily
- Distorted nail shape or separation from the nail bed
- A foul odor coming from the infected nail
- Pain or discomfort, especially when walking (for toenail fungus)
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to start treatment early to prevent the fungus from spreading.
Treatment Options for Nail Fungus
Nail fungus can be difficult to treat, but a combination of medications, home remedies, and lifestyle changes can improve results.
1. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments
Mild nail fungus can sometimes be treated with OTC antifungal solutions, which include:
- Topical antifungal creams and ointments such as clotrimazole and tolnaftate
- Antifungal nail lacquers like ciclopirox (Penlac), which is applied directly to the nail
- Tea tree oil or undecylenic acid solutions, which have antifungal properties
These treatments work best in early-stage infections but may take months to show visible results.
2. Prescription Medications
For moderate to severe nail fungus, doctors may prescribe stronger antifungal treatments.
Oral Antifungal Medications
- Terbinafine (Lamisil) and Itraconazole (Sporanox) are the most commonly prescribed pills for nail fungus.
- These medications work by attacking the fungus from within and promoting healthy nail growth.
- Treatment usually lasts 6 to 12 weeks, but it can take several months for a new, healthy nail to replace the infected one.
Topical Prescription Medications
- Efinaconazole (Jublia) and Tavaborole (Kerydin) are prescription-strength nail lacquers that penetrate the nail to kill the fungus.
- These treatments are applied daily for several months and are most effective in mild to moderate infections.
Possible Side Effects of Oral Medications
- Liver damage (requires blood test monitoring)
- Skin rashes or allergic reactions
- Stomach upset or headaches
Because of potential side effects, oral antifungal medications are not recommended for everyone, especially those with liver disease or heart conditions.
3. Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus
Laser therapy is an emerging treatment for stubborn nail fungus infections.
- A high-intensity laser is used to heat and destroy the fungus without harming the surrounding nail or skin.
- The procedure is quick (30-60 minutes) and usually painless.
- It may take several sessions to fully eliminate the infection.
Although laser treatment is effective, it is not always covered by insurance and can be expensive.
Preventing Nail Fungus
To prevent future nail fungus infections, follow these hygiene and lifestyle tips:
- Keep nails trimmed and clean to reduce fungal buildup
- Wear breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places like gyms, pools, and showers
- Disinfect nail clippers and tools regularly
- Choose a reputable nail salon that sterilizes equipment properly
- Keep feet dry and avoid excessive sweating
When to See a Doctor
If the fungal infection worsens, spreads, or causes pain, consult a doctor. Seek medical attention if:
- Over-the-counter treatments do not work after several months
- The nail becomes severely thickened, cracked, or detached
- You have diabetes or circulation problems that increase the risk of complications
A doctor can help determine the best treatment plan based on the severity of the infection.
Conclusion
Nail fungus is a persistent but treatable condition. Whether using over-the-counter treatments, prescription medications, laser therapy, or home remedies, consistency is key to successfully eliminating the infection.
For mild cases, antifungal creams and home treatments may work, while severe cases often require prescription medication or laser therapy. Preventative measures, such as maintaining proper foot hygiene and wearing breathable shoes, can help reduce the risk of reinfection.
